In Utah, all minors are entitled to parental support until they turn 18, complete high school or are emancipated by marriage or a court order, whichever comes later.
Generally, child support is set according to state guidelines and established by a divorce court order governing how and when child support payments are made. However the court can order a different amount if either of the parties seeks a different amount and demonstrates good reasons for the amount requested. At Huntsman | Lofgran | Walton pllc, our lawyers know what the court looks for and which arguments it is more likely to consider.
Child support boils down to three simple components:
However, as with many family law issues, things can get complicated, depending on whether legal or physical custody is awarded jointly and the number of “overnights” accorded to each spouse — and if either spouse must care for children from a previous marriage, as well.
The court may amend the terms of child support that the formula determines if it finds a good case can be made because of:
Here are some excellent resources for Utah child support calculators that can help you estimate payments.
Court orders for child support must be followed to the letter. Custodial parents may not withhold parent time, even if child support is not being paid, nor may a parent withhold child support if parent time is being denied. If either parent experiences difficulties regarding child support, the court order can be modified — or enforced.
Both parents cannot claim a child as a dependent in the same tax year — the Internal Revenue Service investigates this and may impose penalties. Your child support order establishes which of you may claim the child as a dependent for federal and state income tax purposes, but:
There are significant financial ramifications to Utah child support awards, some of which you may not see coming until after the fact. At Huntsman | Lofgran | Walton pllc in Midvlale, our legal team knows what to watch for in child support deliberations, and we work that knowledge into our overall strategy in promoting your and your child’s best interests. Call us at 801-474-0031 or contact us online.