What Impact Does Custody have on Child Support?

Child custody has a large bearing on how child support is determined in a divorce settlement. In California, both parents are financially responsible for their child. When full custody is granted to one parent, that parent is considered the custodial parent, and their financial obligation is considered fulfilled.

The non-custodial parent is typically required to pay child support to the custodial parent in order to fulfill their financial obligation, and the amount of child support to be paid is determined by the percentage that each parent contributed to the couple's joint income during their marriage. When custody is split, who pays child support is determined by income during the marriage and also the percentage of time each parent has physical custody of the child.

Typically, the parent who pays child support is required to do so until the child turns eighteen, begins active military duty, or is emancipated by a court. Child support also ends if parental rights are terminated through adoption.

If you have questions about child support in California, take the time to speak with Los Angeles family lawyer by contacting Claery & Green today!