The Federal Child Support Enforcement Act has developed guidelines covering a state child support formula that varies in each state. This means that child support ordered in one state may be much more or less than that ordered in another state.  The status of parental custody is taken into account by each family court judge when determining the amount to be paid.  Additional factors include:

• The needs of child, including medical, dental and vision insurance, education, daycare and special needs

• Income and needs of the custodial parent

• The paying parent’s ability to pay

• The child’s standard of living before divorce or separation

Each state has their own child support calculator to estimate monthly support obligations. The family court will require each parent to fill out a financial statement before making a final decision regarding child support.

Spousal Support

• Length of marriage
• Time separated while still married
•  Age and health at the time of the divorce
•  One spouse’s contribution to the education or career of the other
• Contribution as a homemaker
• Income of both parties involved
• Future earning potential and financial situation of each spouse
•  Property awarded to each individual
• Income from other sources, such as investments or annuities

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