Before applying for child support in New York, Attorney Nicholas W. Hicks explains key facts you need to know.
When a couple files for divorce or otherwise share children in common, one of the first issues to address is who gets primary custody over the children. The noncustodial parent, who does not have primary custody, will, in most cases, be required to pay child support. Attorney Nicholas W. Hicks explains how child support is handled in New York.
In New York, Family Court Officials determine the amount to pay. Parents are held accountable for supporting their children, in most cases, until the child is 21 years old. Attorney Nicholas W. Hicks notes that any parent, guardian, or caretaker can petition for child support.
Attorney Nicholas W. Hicks encourages individuals to contact a attorney if they need help in locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, support determination, support collection, support enforcement, medical coverage for the children or enforcement, adjustment of child support amounts, or modification of child support orders.
When working with a new client, Attorney Nicholas W. Hicks often hears, “How much will I be expected to pay in child support”? The New York courts use a general guideline to calculate the payment for the noncustodial parent. Factors include adjusted gross income and number of children requiring support. Attorney Nicholas W. Hicks notes that general guideline percentages under the Child Support Guidelines in New York. Support is calculated on gross income (only allowing for the deduction of FICA). The support percentages are as follows:
- 17% – One Child
- 25% – Two Children
- 29% – Three Children
- 31% – Four children
- 35% or more – Five + Children.
When filing a support petition, Attorney Nicholas W. Hicks recommends providing as much information as possible to the attorney.
Information about the noncustodial parent should include full name, birthday, contact information, social security number, income records, and health insurance documents. Other useful information, if applicable includes a copy of the marriage license, current and/or previous child support orders, child-related expenses, divorce agreement, etc.
About Nicholas Hicks:
Starting from an early age, Nicholas Hicks was rescued from NYC foster care at the age of 5 years old. Nicholas Hicks attended both public and private school where he eventually graduated from ECC, UB & UB Law School.
