Child Support Lawyer Kansas City, KS

Know the Signs of Divorce

A divorce is a complicated, overwhelming experience, and for those who are caught by surprise, it’s easy to panic and rush to find solutions without weighing the options. However, most divorces offer plenty of warning: You just need to know what signs to look for.

Every couple is different, but if you and your spouse can’t go a day without fighting, it could be a sign that your marriage is headed for trouble. On the complete opposite end of the spectrum, you might completely ignore or avoid contact with each other, and this is just as bad as constant fighting. If you and your spouse are lacking intimacy (more than usual) or considering affairs with other people, all is not well in your marriage.

While there are many signs of divorce, not everyone notices them in time. And if it’s too late to consider counseling or other alternatives to avoid a divorce, it’s time to plan for the worst.

You Are No Longer Communicating.

A key ingredient in every relationship is communication. It is important that spouses talk to each other and understand how the other is feeling on a regular basis. You may think that avoiding certain conversations prevents arguments, when in fact, it just drives emotional distance. Having disagreements and verbalizing them is actually preferable compared to no longer communicating with your spouse. If separation happens and child support is fought for, parents may be unable to reach an agreement because they are used to avoiding and not cooperating with each other.

You Have Pent-Up Contempt or Resentment.

Having respect for your spouse is the foundation of your marriage. Lack of empathy, callousness, or ridicule can cause anger and resentment to fester. When one spouse is feeling contempt, unless it is just in the heat of an argument, it can be difficult to have fond emotions towards the other. As a child support lawyer Kansas City, KS parents trust from the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. has seen before, that not respecting a spouse can cause child support cases to be even more stressful, as a lack of decency means they are probably not willing to collaborate.

You Have Not Been Physically Affectionate.

Intimacy is an essential aspect of any marriage, and can easily be taken for granted and lost entirely. Less affection can happen due to raising children, being busy at work, going through a stressful event, and other life responsibilities. While temporary periods of no intimacy between partners may not be a sign of divorce per se, if these durations last for months and then years on, the marriage may have reached the end of its cycle. Stale affection between spouses can brew bitterness, meaning they will be less likely to show compassion during a child support case.

There Are Instances of Financial Infidelity.

Financial infidelity occurs when one spouse is living a lifestyle that doesn’t represent earnings or their share of the bank funds. A Kansas City child support lawyer can attest, one spouse may start racking up credit card bills on luxurious items that don’t support the family and home. Buying a new vehicle spontaneously, taking out a loan without transparency, or otherwise being financially frivolous may contribute to a divorce happening. A spouse who isn’t showing consideration for the shared money while married is probably not going to be fair when fighting for or against a child support request amidst divorce.

You Are Not Happy for Each Other’s Success.

In a marriage, both spouses must be proud of and support the other’s success. There may be times when child-raising and work career goals cause friction and require compromise, but otherwise, a healthy marriage entails joy for their spouse’s big life moments. Sometimes parents get into a routine of caring for children and may feel tired and not as enthusiastic as they normally would be about hearing good news. But this is a minor issue and can be easily worked through with communication. As clients have expressed to our Kansas City lawyer child support team, a spouse that continues to not show encouragement when the other shines is not likely to keep the marriage intact for the long term. 

What Does a Divorce Entail?

A divorce isn’t just you and your spouse going separate ways. Divorces involve splitting up assets and reaching a child custody agreement and depending on how badly your spouse wants to get payback, this can turn ugly faster than you could imagine. It’s one thing to lose your home and possessions, but it’s unthinkable that you’ll never see your children again. Fortunately, getting in touch with a Kansas City child support lawyer can make all the difference.

Visitation Rights and Custody

Depending on how your divorce proceedings go, you might find yourself on the hook for spousal and child support payments. The amount you’ll pay varies from case to case, but the most important thing to remember is that if you only have visitation rights, you aren’t going to be able to spend as much time with your kids as you’d like.

When it comes to divorce, it’s usual for one parent to have custody, and another to have visitation rights. If you have custody of the children, it means you’re responsible for raising your kids. You’ll have to feed and clothe them, take them to school and doctor’s appointments, and any other extracurricular activities, too. It’s a lot of work, but nobody said raising kids is easy – and it’s worth the effort to spend more time with your kids.

On the other hand, if you’ve been awarded visitation rights, you’ll only be able to see your kids on set dates throughout the week or month. You’ll have to pay child support to ensure they have the best life possible – but you won’t be there to watch them grow. It can be painful to lose your kids, so it’s more important to make sure you find the right lawyer who can help you navigate your divorce.

Do You Need Assistance With Child Support in Kansas City?

Child support is a crucial aspect of divorce or separation cases involving children, and navigating the complexities of child support laws can be overwhelming. If you find yourself in this situation in Kansas City, contact The Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. for a consultation.

Child Support Laws in Kansas:

Child support laws in Kansas, including Kansas City, are governed by the Kansas Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines provide a framework for calculating child support based on several factors, including the income of both parents, the number of children involved, and the custodial arrangement.

Reasons to Seek Assistance:

1. Understanding the Guidelines: The Kansas Child Support Guidelines can be intricate and may involve various calculations. An experienced professional can help you understand these guidelines and how they apply to your specific situation.
2. Calculating Income: Determining the appropriate income for child support calculations might involve various sources, such as wages, self-employment income, bonuses, and more. An expert can help ensure accurate calculations.
3. Custodial Arrangements: Child support amounts can vary based on custody arrangements. Whether you have sole custody, joint custody, or another arrangement, it’s essential to know how it affects child support calculations.
4. Modifications: Over time, circumstances can change, such as changes in income, health, or living situations. A child support attorney can help you navigate the process of modifying child support orders when necessary.
5. Enforcement: If the non-custodial parent fails to pay child support as ordered, enforcement measures might be necessary. An attorney can guide you through the process of seeking enforcement and ensure your child’s financial needs are met.

Child Support Infographic

Kansas City Child Support Statistics

According to U.S Census Bureau data, approximately 19.2 million children, or 25 percent of all children in the United States, are owed child support. This statistic is a stark reminder of the prevalence of child support issues in this country. Less than 50 percent of custodial parents actually receive the amount of child support awarded to them by the court.

How a Lawyer Can Help:

1. Legal Expertise: Child support Lawyers are well-versed in family law and child support regulations. They can provide legal advice tailored to your situation and help you understand your rights and responsibilities.
2. Guidance in Negotiation: If you and your ex-partner are open to negotiation, a lawyer can help you reach a fair agreement that serves the best interests of your child. They can ensure that the agreement aligns with the law and adequately addresses your child’s needs.
3. Court Representation: In cases where negotiation isn’t possible, a lawyer can represent you in court. They will present your case, provide evidence, and advocate for a child support order that reflects your child’s needs.
4. Documentation and Paperwork: Child support cases involve extensive documentation and paperwork. A lawyer can assist in gathering the necessary information, completing paperwork accurately, and ensuring all deadlines are met.
5. Peace of Mind: Dealing with child support matters can be emotionally challenging. Having a lawyer by your side can alleviate stress and provide peace of mind, knowing that you have a knowledgeable advocate on your side.

Kansas Child Support Laws

The welfare of children is of utmost importance in the eyes of the law, and Kansas takes significant measures to ensure that children receive consistent and adequate financial support, especially when parents are no longer together. For parents navigating the complex world of child support in the state, understanding the specifics of Kansas child support laws can provide clarity and direction.

Basis Of Determining Child Support

Kansas employs the Income Shares Model as the cornerstone for calculating child support. This approach takes into account the combined income of both parents, simulating the amount they would have allocated for the child’s expenses if they were living together. Once this amount is determined, it’s divided based on each parent’s proportional income, leading to a final child support obligation. A Kansas City, KS child support lawyer at the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. can explain how this calculus can apply to your unique circumstances if you’re concerned about what you may owe or receive once a support order is crafted for your family.

Factors That Influence Child Support

While the core calculation revolves around the parents’ income, Kansas courts assess several other elements to ensure the child’s needs are met adequately. These include the specific requirements of the child, any health care or insurance costs, educational expenses, and even the time the child spends with each parent.

Duration And Continuation Of Support

Child support in Kansas is generally required until the child turns 18. However, there are exceptions. If a child is still attending high school or an equivalent program upon reaching 18, the support can extend until graduation or until the child turns 19. Additionally, for children with special needs, the support might continue beyond these age limits, contingent on specific circumstances.

Modification Provisions In Child Support

As life is inherently dynamic, the law in Kansas recognizes that changes might warrant modifications to child support orders. If there’s a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant shift in income, job loss, or a major change in the child’s needs, either parent can request a review and potential adjustment of the child support amount.

Enforcing Child Support Orders

Ensuring that child support commitments are honored is paramount. When a parent doesn’t comply with the support order, Kansas has a robust set of enforcement tools. These range from wage garnishments, intercepting tax refunds, to more stringent measures that might involve legal penalties or even incarceration for the defaulting parent.

Child Support And Parental Agreements

Kansas child support laws also accommodate agreements made between parents. If both parents agree on a specific amount, either higher or lower than the guideline amount, they can present their agreement to the court. The court will then review the agreement to ensure it meets the child’s best interests before potentially ratifying it.

The Importance Of Legal Guidance

Kansas child support laws serve as a comprehensive framework, but the nuances and specifics of each family’s situation can make navigation challenging. Accurate determination, enforcement, and potential modification of child support require a depth of understanding and expertise that’s grounded in the law.

For parents journeying through the realm of child support in Kansas, whether it’s initiating an order, seeking modifications, or addressing enforcement challenges, our seasoned Kansas City child support lawyer team is prepared to stand by your side. With a profound understanding of Kansas child support laws and a commitment to safeguarding the best interests of your child, we’re here to provide the guidance and representation you deserve. Reach out to our firm today for a comprehensive consultation with a skilled Kansas City child support lawyer, so that we can work collaboratively to ensure your child’s present and future needs are met.

Get in Touch with the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. Today

At the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A., we know that a divorce can lead to families being torn apart. We also know that you deserve a fighting chance to see your kids as much as possible. Get in touch with us today and see how a Kansas City child support lawyer can make a difference.

One of the most common family law matters that a child support lawyer in Kansas City, KS from Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. has handled before are issues over child support. Because of how contentious this topic can be, it isn’t uncommon for lawyers, mediators, and other professionals to assist with a resolution. The more informed parents are about their duties and rights, the better prepared they are to meet the needs of their children.

The purpose of child support is to provide funds for kids so their basic needs are met, including food, clothes, shelter, medication, and education. The parent who is not the primary caregiver may have to pay child support to the parent with full custody. As a Kansas City, KS child support lawyer may explain to clients, the family court judge will determine payment amounts and responsibilities based on numerous factors, such as:

• Monthly income of both parents
• Monthly costs of daycare, education, and extracurriculars
• Living arrangements for children
• Cost for pediatric medical coverage 
• Commissions or bonuses received by each parent yearly
• Parental voluntary underemployment or unemployment
• Special education needs for child
• Other factors that could impact a parent’s ability to pay

How much is paid in child support and by which parent will depend on state laws and many other factors. For most states, the child should receive the same level of parental income as if the parents still resided together. In other states, payments are calculated based on a percentage of the non-custodial parent’s earnings. 

If the court determines that one parent must pay into child support, and he or she refuses to do so, the other parent may submit a motion for contempt and force payments to happen. The remedies that may be implemented by the court to ensure the child gets the financial support they need is garnishing wages or inflicting criminal penalties on the non-paying parent.

We know how important children are to their parents. We hope that you consider contacting our team to help you through this difficult period. Family law issues tend to be emotionally driven and complex, so you must hire a lawyer who knows how to handle these delicate cases. Call a Kansas child support lawyer in Kansas City from Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. to have us get started right away on your case.

7 Things To Know About Child Support Lawyers

Contacting a Kansas City, KS child support lawyer can help you find a way forward. At the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A., we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge. Here are seven key things to know about child support lawyers.

1. They Specialize In Family Law

Child support lawyers are specialized attorneys who focus on family law. They possess a deep understanding of the legal aspects surrounding child support, including state laws and regulations. This specialization ensures that they are well-equipped to handle the nuances and complexities of child support cases.

2. Expertise In Calculating Child Support

One of the primary roles of a child support lawyer is to help accurately calculate child support payments. They consider various factors such as income, custody arrangements, and the needs of the child. This expertise ensures that the child support amount is fair and complies with state guidelines.

3. Representation In Court

If a child support case goes to court, having a lawyer is invaluable. They provide representation, present your case, and advocate on your behalf. A child support lawyer can articulate your concerns and work towards a resolution that best serves the interests of your child.

4. Assistance With Agreement Modifications

Life circumstances change, and child support agreements may need modifications. Your Kansas City child support lawyer can assist in legally modifying the agreement, whether it’s due to changes in income, employment, or living situations. They ensure that the modifications are just and reflect the current situation.

5. Help In Enforcing Child Support Orders

Enforcing child support orders can be challenging. Child support lawyers are instrumental in ensuring that these orders are followed. If the other parent fails to make payments, your lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order, which might include wage garnishments or court actions.

6. They Offer Objective Advice

Child support cases can be emotionally charged. A child support lawyer provides objective and professional advice, helping you make informed decisions. They focus on the legal aspects and work towards solutions that are in the best interest of the child, while also considering your financial capabilities.

7. Mediation And Negotiation Skills

Many child support issues can be resolved through mediation or negotiation, without going to court. Child support lawyers are skilled negotiators and can mediate discussions between parents. This approach often leads to amicable agreements that suit all parties involved, especially the children.

Contact Us Today

Understanding the role of a child support lawyer is crucial when navigating the complexities of child support. They not only provide legal expertise and representation but also ensure that the child’s best interests are at the forefront of any decision. Whether it’s calculating payments, modifying agreements, or enforcing orders, a child support lawyer is an invaluable asset.

If you find yourself in need of guidance or representation in a child support matter, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. Get in touch with us today, and see how a Kansas City Child support lawyer from our office can help.