Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

Child Support Payments

When do I have to start paying child support? Is it when the paperwork is filled or when the final divorce judgement has been issued?


Asked on 6/14/07, 10:30 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Raul Ruiz The Law Offices of Raul Ruiz, P.A.

Re: Child Support Payments

You must start paying child support when ordered to do so by the judge.

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Answered on 6/14/07, 10:39 am

Re: Child Support Payments

As soon as you are no longer living with the children and directly paying the bills. You can seek a hearing on temporary support and then get a final judgment with the permanent amount.

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Answered on 6/14/07, 10:39 am
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Child Support Payments

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such nformation, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

The obligation for child support begins the moment a child is born. A parent must always support his or her child until the age of 18.

In a divorce, the non custodial parent must provide money to the custodial parent. That obligation begins the day the parties separate. Courts will often award child support retroactive to the date the petition for dissolution was filed if support has not been provided throughout the course of the action.

Many attorneys will file for a determination of temporary support to show their client's willingness to meet his or her obligation. This can often reduce the final responsiblity for the parent and can win favor in the court's eyes.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 6/14/07, 12:52 pm


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