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How is child support calculated after separation and what are my visitation rights?

How is child support calculated after separation and what are my visitation rights?

Full question:

My girlfriend and I have been together for about 9 years and have a 6 year old son together. We are now separating and I would like to know how much child support I am supposed to pay. I also have 3 other children that live with my mother, and will be coming to live with me much more after we separate. I also want to know what my rights to visitation are.

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Child Support
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Tennessee

Answer:

If you and your girlfriend cannot agree on child support and custody, you may need to seek a court decision. The court will consider various factors, including your income, the needs of your child, and the time each parent spends with the child when determining child support. For visitation rights, you generally have the right to spend time with your children, but specific arrangements will depend on your situation and any agreements made with your girlfriend or court orders. It’s advisable to consult with a family law attorney to understand your rights and obligations.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is the Mississippi law for child support?

In Mississippi, child support is calculated based on the Income Shares Model, which considers both parents' incomes and the needs of the child. The state has guidelines that suggest a percentage of the non-custodial parent's income based on the number of children. Courts may also consider additional factors such as healthcare costs and educational expenses. It's important to consult with a family law attorney to understand how these guidelines apply to your specific situation. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is proof of child support payments?

Proof of child support payments can include bank statements, receipts, or payment records from the state child support enforcement agency. It's important to keep accurate records of all payments made, including dates and amounts. This documentation can be crucial in case of disputes regarding payment history or amounts owed. Always ensure that payments are made in a traceable manner to establish a clear record. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is the minimum a father has to pay for child support?

In Mississippi, there is no fixed minimum amount for child support, as it is determined based on the Income Shares Model. However, the guidelines provide a framework that suggests a percentage of the non-custodial parent's income, which varies depending on the number of children. Courts may also consider individual circumstances, so it's advisable to consult with a family law attorney for personalized guidance. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

How do I show proof of child support payments?

To show proof of child support payments, you can provide bank statements, canceled checks, or receipts from the child support enforcement agency. Keeping detailed records of all transactions, including dates and amounts, is essential. If payments are made through a court-ordered system, the agency will typically provide documentation as well. This proof is important in case of disputes regarding payment compliance. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is the best way to verify child support income?

To verify child support income, you can request documentation such as pay stubs, tax returns, or W-2 forms from the paying parent. If the income is inconsistent, a court may consider an average of the past year's earnings. Additionally, you can use income verification services or seek assistance from a family law attorney to ensure accurate assessment of the income used for calculating child support. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

How does child support work if you have multiple children?

When a parent has multiple children from different relationships, child support is calculated based on the total number of children and the income of the non-custodial parent. The court will consider the needs of each child and may adjust the support amount accordingly. In Mississippi, the guidelines provide percentages based on the number of children, which helps determine the total obligation. It's best to consult with a family law attorney for specific calculations related to your situation. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*