Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland
Child Support
I need to know what court ordered child support is used for. And, is clothing, school supplies (after school activities/sports) etc a separate expense that is not included in child support?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Child Support
Court-ordered child support is to be used for the support of the living expenses of the child. This can include almost any legitimate expense which benefits the child. "Extraordinary expenses" can add to the child support obligation, however, this is something that has to be approved by the court. Ordinarily, there is no separate child support award for clothing or school supplies. If the child is going to a private school, and you are referring to school uniforms, etc., there may be an allocation for these items.
Re: Child Support
Child support is for whatever needs the child has. Obviously that includes school supplies and activities. The amount of support is based on the parents' incomes, and not the specific needs of the child.