Child Support Attorneys in Griffin, Georgia

Child support is all about a child’s right to have financial support from both parents. One parent shouldn’t bear the financial burden of supporting their child alone. In view of this, when parents separate or divorce, one of them is likely to be ordered to pay child support. 

At The Harding Law Firm, LLC, Attorney Todd A. Harding knows that handling child support issues is a rather delicate matter. While emotions can run high in these cases, the child support attorney in Griffin, Georgia, is committed to helping both parents make rational decisions that benefit their kids. Whether you are the parent seeking child support or the one being asked to financially support your child, Attorney Todd A. Harding can guide you through the legal process to ensure a favorable resolution.  

What Is Child Support? 

Child support is a certain amount of money that one parent pays to the other to help with a child's financial needs. This amount of money is the paying parent’s way to contribute to the receiving parent’s expenses of raising their child. Regardless of the parent's marital status, child support ensures that the child’s various needs are met, including:  

• Housing 

• Education 

• Clothing 

• Food  

• Healthcare 

In Georgia, typically, the non-custodial parent—the parent who does not have primary physical custody of the child—pays child support. This financial obligation supports the child's living expenses in the custodial parent's household. While both parents are expected to contribute to their child’s upbringing financially, the amount may vary depending on several factors, including the income disparity between the parents. 

The “Income Sharing” Approach to Calculating Child Support in Georgia 

Georgia employs the "income sharing" model to determine child support. This approach calculates child support based on both parents' gross incomes, proportionally dividing the financial responsibility for the child's upbringing according to each parent's earnings. 

Gross income for child support purposes in Georgia includes: 

• Salaries and wages 

• Bonuses, commissions, and overtime 

• Self-employment income 

• Rental income 

• Investment income 

• Social security benefits 

• Unemployment benefits 

Child support is statutory in Georgia and should be paid until the child’s 18th birthday unless the court orders otherwise. Speak with a reliable domestic family law attorney to learn more about your options.

Factors Considered by Georgia Courts When Determining Child Support 

Georgia courts evaluate several factors when determining child support, ensuring that the support order is just and reflects the child's needs. Key considerations include: 

• The financial resources and income of each parent 

• The standard of living the child would have enjoyed if the marriage had not dissolved 

• The child's educational needs and extracurricular activities 

• The cost of medical and dental insurance for the child 

• The child's own income or financial resources, if any 

• Special needs of the child, including medical or educational requirements 

Understanding these factors can help parents anticipate the court's decision and prepare accordingly. As the Griffin child support attorney, Attorney Todd A. Harding can assess your financial circumstances and calculate child support based on Georgia’s guidelines.  

Modification of Child Support Orders in Georgia 

Child support orders can be modified in Georgia if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a change in income, job loss, or a shift in custody arrangements. Attorney Todd A. Harding provides assistance in filing for modifications to ensure that child support arrangements remain fair and equitable, even as the time goes by. The attorney also helps parents paying or receiving support oppose the other party’s attempt to modify an existing order.  

Enforcement of Child Support Orders in Georgia 

Enforcing child support orders is essential to ensure that a child’s financial needs are met. Attorney Todd A. Harding can assist with legal measures to enforce compliance, such as wage garnishments, liens on property, and interception of tax refunds. The Georgia child support attorney works diligently to ensure enforcement efforts are pursued effectively, safeguarding the child's right to support.  

How a Child Support Attorney Can Help You 

When it comes to seeking or opposing a child support order, you might think you can do it yourself. However, working with a child support attorney is often your best option. Here’s why:  

• Trusted guidance: With legal counsel, you can navigate the complexities of child support laws with ease and confidence. 

• Accurate calculations: An attorney will ensure accurate and fair calculation of obligations. 

• Legal representation: An attorney will represent your interests in the courtroom and out-of-court negotiations.  

• Documentation: An attorney will assist in gathering required documents for court proceedings. 

• Modification requests: An attorney will help with modifications when circumstances change. 

• Enforcement actions: An attorney will pursue enforcement for unpaid support. 

While you should strongly consider contacting a Griffin child support attorney, the decision to hire one is up to you.  

Why Choose The Harding Law Firm, LLC? 

There are many child support attorneys in Griffin, Georgia—so, why should you choose Attorney Todd A. Harding to represent you? The attorney has earned a reputation for his:  

• Attention to detail: The attorney is always meticulous in assessing each case's nuances. 

• Crafting tailored strategies: The attorney develops customized strategies to suit individual client needs. 

• Advocacy for fair and balanced solutions: Attorney Todd A. Harding strives for equitable outcomes for all parties involved. 

• Nearly 30 years of legal experience: The attorney leverages his nearly three decades of experience to empower clients.  

• Deep understanding of Georgia’s child support laws: The attorney has in-depth familiarity with local statutes and regulations. 

• Attorney who cares: Attorney Todd A. Harding is committed to providing compassionate service. 

• Free 30-minute consultations: The attorney offers initial consultations at no cost to discuss your case. 

Attorney Todd A. Harding believes in serving all his clients with compassion, integrity, and respect. Whether you need to establish, oppose, modify, or enforce child support, the attorney at The Harding Law Firm, LLC, can protect your rights and safeguard the best interests of your child.  

Child Support Attorneys in Griffin, Georgia 

Unfortunately, child support is often one of the most emotionally charged issues when parents separate or divorce. Many parents have different opinions on whether child support is necessary and, if so, what amount should be paid. Attorney Todd A. Harding knows how contentious child support issues are and is committed to working hard to deliver an outcome that is right for his clients and their children. The Harding Law Firm, LLC, is based in Griffin, Georgia, but serves clients throughout Spalding County, Monroe County, Henry County, Butts County, and Lamar County. Reach out now to schedule your free, 30-minute consultation.