Los Angeles Child Support Lawyer
Guidance for Parents Navigating Child Support
At Feinberg & Waller, APC, a family law firm serving Los Angeles since 1994, we understand how important financial stability is for children after a divorce or separation. California’s child support laws are designed to place the needs of children first, but calculating and enforcing support can feel overwhelming without experienced guidance. Our attorneys, including a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) and Certified Family Law Specialists, provide trusted representation that balances strong legal advocacy with compassion for your family’s circumstances.
Call Feinberg & Waller, APC today at (800) 655-4766 to schedule a confidential consultation.
California Child Support – The Basics
In California, child support is determined using state guidelines that consider each parent’s income, how much time the child spends with each parent, and other financial factors. Courts may also account for health insurance, educational needs, and childcare costs.
Because every family is different, support calculations can feel complicated. Our role is to break down the guidelines, explain what applies in your situation, and help present accurate financial information to the court.
Establishing Child Support Orders
Whether you are filing for divorce, separating, or have never been married, child support can be established through the court. In some cases, parents agree to terms together; in others, the court sets the amount.
At Feinberg & Waller, APC, we assist with:
- Filing the initial paperwork to start a child support case
- Representing parents in hearings or settlement negotiations
- Ensuring that all income and expense details are fairly represented
Modifying & Enforcing Support
Life changes, and sometimes child support orders need to change too. A parent may lose a job, see an increase in income, or a child’s medical needs may grow. When this happens, we help parents request modifications to keep support orders accurate and fair.
If payments are missed, California offers enforcement tools such as wage garnishments, property liens, or even license suspensions. In Los Angeles, these matters may also involve the Los Angeles County Child Support Services Department (CSSD) or the California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS), which handle collections and enforcement across county and state levels. Our attorneys guide parents through these procedures, working to protect rights while keeping the focus on the child’s needs.
Child Support & Divorce in Los Angeles
Child support often goes hand in hand with divorce. Support decisions are influenced by custody arrangements, parenting time, and the financial situation of both parents. Our attorneys handle divorce and custody matters alongside support and property cases, giving families a coordinated legal strategy.
How Child Support Interacts with Custody & Spousal Support
Child support does not exist in a vacuum. The amount owed is closely tied to custody arrangements and, in some cases, spousal support orders. For example, the more time a parent spends caring for a child, the greater their financial contribution through direct expenses, which can impact the support calculation. Having coordinated representation in custody, spousal support, and divorce matters helps ensure that all financial obligations are considered together rather than separately.
Common Questions About Child Support in California
How long does child support last?
Generally, child support continues until the child turns 18. If the child is still in high school and living at home, payments may continue until age 19 or graduation from high school (the child must be a full-time student), whichever is earlier.
Can child support be collected if the other parent lives outside California?
Yes. California works with other states under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) to enforce and collect payments across state lines.
What if a parent refuses to pay?
Non-payment can lead to serious consequences, including wage garnishment, property liens, or suspension of a driver’s or professional license.
Can child support orders be changed?
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there is a significant change in income, custody, or the child’s needs.
Begin Your Path Forward with Our Child Support Lawyers
Child support is not just about money; it’s about making sure children have what they need to grow and thrive. At Feinberg & Waller, APC, our Los Angeles child support lawyers guide parents through the process with clarity and care, helping families navigate California’s complex support laws while focusing on what matters most: the well-being of your children.
With offices in Beverly Hills, Calabasas, and Westlake Village, we are here to provide practical solutions and compassionate representation.
Related Reading
For more information on child support in California, you may find these resources helpful:
- How Can Child Support Be Made Non-Modifiable?
- Calculating California Child Support
- Does Child Support End?
- Child Support and Relocation
- Child Support Modifications for High-Income Families: Navigating Financial Responsibilities
Call (800) 655-4766 today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your child support matter with confidence.
A Reputation for Excellence
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"He was great to work with. He took his time in understanding my case, and ultimately settled instead of going to court."Verified Client Posted Review
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"I could tell that Ryan was truly invested both in my case and my own personal wellbeing as he went above and beyond what was expected to work with me and make the entire process as smooth as possible."Verified Client Posted Review
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