Attorney Todd Dwire speaking with staff member in conference room

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What To Know About Child Support In Minnesota

In 2007, Minnesota’s child support payment guidelines changed. Under the old law, the noncustodial parent was required to pay a set amount of child support regardless of the amount of parenting time he or she was awarded. The income of the custodial parent was not recognized. Today, the court considers the incomes (and income potential) of both parents. They also count the parenting time schedule, health insurance premiums for children and more.

At Dwire Law Offices, in Lakeville, Minnesota, divorce attorney Todd Dwire offers a free initial consultation to discuss changes in child support payment laws and how they affect you and your family. Contact us today if you have questions regarding your child support payments.

Parenting Time And Child Support

Today, child custody labels – such as sole custody vs. joint physical – have no bearing on how child support is calculated. Instead, the new guidelines only consider the percentage of time you spend with your child. There are three categories:

  • Less than 10 percent of parenting time
  • 10 to 45 percent of parenting time
  • 45 percent or more of parenting time

People are often concerned about the costs of daycare, college tuition and other unique costs that may be involved in raising a child. The law firm will educate you about these issues, whether you are divorced or were never married.

Attorney Todd Dwire is committed to answering all questions about child support.

Child Support Modifications

You may also be entitled to modify your child support payments if your order was entered under the old law. To qualify for a child support modification, you would have to show the court that you had a substantial change in circumstances. These changes could include a loss of a job, an illness, or a change in income or expenses for you or your former spouse. We can help you determine if your change in circumstances is severe enough that a court would allow a modification.

Avoiding Court With Informal Child Support Agreements Is Risky

While an informal agreement between you and your ex-spouse may seem less onerous than a court-ordered modification, it exposes you to certain risks. For example, you may be accruing child support arrearages without even realizing it. Even though you may have a good relationship now, if the relationship begins to deteriorate, he or she can enter an enforcement motion against you.

Your Case Begins With A Free Consultation

To protect our clients, divorce lawyer Todd Dwire enters modification motions as soon as a change in circumstances requires them. To discuss your child support case with Lakeville divorce attorney Todd Dwire, call 866-442-9693 or fill out the contact form on this site. From our Lakeville office, we can assist clients in Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Lakeville, Prior Lake, Savage and Shakopee.