Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

Scope of Child Support

I'm divorced and have custody of my 2 children 40% of the time. I pay child support accordingly (approx $2000/mo). My ex-wife wants me to take turns buying clothes such as shoes, doctor's bills, etc. I thought my monthly support was to be used for these expenses. Am I correct?


Asked on 3/20/08, 1:18 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: Scope of Child Support

You asked about child support payments.

Child support is meant to provide for the benefit of the child as the custodial parent sees fit. Some custodial parents use the payments for routine operation expenses and others put the money into an account for the minor child for use for any particular purpose.

There is no directive as to whether a parent with less custodial obligation must contribute additional monies to provide for the additional expenses of a child.

My suggestion would be to engage a mediator to sort out where the child support payments are going and why additional monies are needed. This is not something where you want to have a fight where the children will be in the middle. A competent mediator can help you come up with a solution that benefits all.

Regards,

Roger

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Answered on 3/20/08, 2:04 pm


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