On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Paternity/Child Support on Monday, November 7, 2016.
Every family law situation in Missouri is different. Any number of challenges may arise when attempting to resolve problems concerning child support, custody or other parental matters. The court is the final voice of authority in such situations, and sometimes (as in a recent case in another state) its decisions take those involved by surprise. A concerned parent is always able to act alongside experienced guidance to ensure protection of his or her best interests.
The recent situation in another jurisdiction involved a mother and father who divorced some seven years ago. Their 13-year-old daughter was recently interviewed by a state Supreme Court judge, who was apparently quite impressed with the young girl’s ambitions to become a Broadway star. In fact, after speaking with her, he issued a modification of an existing child support order in a move that appears to be a departure from typical guidelines in that state.
The combined annual income of the girl’s parents is approximately $56,000. Previously, her father had been ordered to pay $113 a month as financial contribution to her upbringing. Now, however, both parents are mandated to set aside $250 each, per year, to pay for supplemental lessons their daughter supposedly needs to bring her Broadway dreams to fruition.
The judge stated that such situations should be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Every state has its own guidelines regarding child support issues. If a parent in Missouri wishes to address a particular need or long-term goal, a consultation can be requested with an experienced family law attorney to seek sound counsel and effective representation.
Source: New York Post, “Your gifted kid is going to cost you more in child support“, Julia Marsh, Nov. 3, 2016
