Lake County Child Support Modification Lawyer

Helping You Navigate the Complex World of Child Support Modifications in Lake County, Kane County, McHenry County, and Cook County, Illinois

If you’re a parent dealing with child support issues in Illinois, you know the complicated situations and emotional turmoil that can result. 

Whether you’re seeking to modify an existing child support order or ensure that payments are being made correctly, the process can be daunting and overwhelming.

That’s where a skilled child support modification lawyer serving in Lake County, IL from Manassa Law P.C. can make all the difference.

At Manassa Law P.C., we understand the emotional and financial strain that child support matters can place on families. Our team of dedicated family law attorneys is committed to providing compassionate guidance and unwavering advocacy to ensure that your child’s best interests are protected throughout the process.

Contact us today for your free consultation.

Child Support Laws in Illinois

In Illinois, child support is determined based on the combined net income of both parents, the number of children involved, and the number of overnights a parent exercises. Illinois child support determinations also consider other factors as the needs of the child, the resources of the parent and that parent’s ability to contribute financially, the lifestyle the child would have been accustomed to had the parents stayed together, as well as tax credits, children from other relationships, and the parent’s contribution to other child-related expenses.  

Computations involve adding both parents’ net income together and selecting the appropriate amount from a schedule of basic child support obligations. The calculation will establish each parent’s percentage share. Income includes money earned from all sources including salary and wages, bonuses, commissions, rental income, and other sources. 

The court will also consider factors such as daycare expenses, health insurance costs, and other relevant factors. The non-custodial parent will pay their share to the custodial parent. The custodial parent will presumably spend their share taking care of the children.

Child support in Illinois continues until the child reaches the age of 18, or graduates from high school, whichever occurs last but no later than the child’s 19th birthday.

For a detailed explanation of the specific guidelines outlined in the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, please see our page titled “Illinois Child Support Lawyer”

The laws surrounding child support are complex and navigating them without legal representation can be challenging.

Collecting Back Child Support Payments

If the other parent owes you back child support payments, the situation can be incredibly frustrating and financially burdensome. In such cases, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced child support modification lawyer.

At Manassa Law P.C., we can explore various enforcement options with you, including:

• Income Withholding: One common method is income withholding or garnishment. The court may order the noncustodial parent’s employer to deduct child support payments directly from their paycheck.
• Interception of Tax Refunds: The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) may intercept federal and state income tax refunds to cover past-due child support.
• Seizure of Assets: In some cases, the court may order the seizure of the noncustodial parent’s assets to satisfy overdue child support payments. This could include bank account levies or other measures.

Consequences of Not Paying Child Support

Failing to pay court-ordered child support can have severe consequences in Illinois. Not only can it result in interest and penalties being added to the unpaid amount, but it can also lead to driver’s license suspension, passport denial, and even potential jail time for contempt of court. Additionally, unpaid child support can negatively impact your credit score, making it more difficult to secure loans, mortgages, or even employment.

Reasons for Modifications to a Child Support Order 

Life is unpredictable, and circumstances can change dramatically over time. When these changes affect your ability to pay or receive child support, you may need to modify the existing child support order.

Some common reasons for seeking a modification include:

• Changes in employment or income: If either parent experiences a significant change in their employment status or income, it could warrant a modification to ensure that the child support amount is fair and appropriate.
• Changes in the child’s needs: As children grow older, their needs may change, potentially requiring an adjustment to the child support order.
• Changes in parenting time: If there is a significant change in the parenting time arrangement, it could affect the child support calculation.
• Changes in the child’s residence: If the child’s primary residence changes, it could impact the child support order.

Other factors could warrant a modification of a child support order as well. Contact an attorney to discuss your case.

The Benefits of Having an Attorney Represent You

Dealing with child support issues is not something you want to tackle on your own.

Having an experienced child support modification lawyer from Manassa Law P.C. by your side can provide numerous benefits:

• Knowledge of the law: Our attorneys have an in-depth understanding of Illinois child support laws and regulations. We can help ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout the process.
• Effective advocacy: We will advocate tirelessly on your behalf, presenting compelling arguments and evidence to support your case.
• Streamlined process: With our guidance, the child support modification process can be more efficient and less stressful, allowing you to focus on your family’s well-being.
• Objectivity: Child support matters can be highly emotional. An objective third party can help you make rational decisions in the best interests of your child.
• Negotiation skills: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and can work towards a fair resolution, potentially avoiding costly and time-consuming court battles.

Contact an Experienced Illinois Child Support Attorney Today

At Manassa Law P.C., we understand that child support issues can be emotionally and financially draining. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized attention and tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. We will work tirelessly to protect your child’s best interests and increase your chances of receiving the full child support your child deserves.

If you’re facing child support challenges in Lake County, Kane County, McHenry County, or Cook County, Illinois, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of our experienced child support modification lawyers. Contact Manassa Law P.C. today at (847) 221-5511 to consult our family law attorneys servicing Lake County, Illinois and take the first step toward resolving your child support matters with confidence and peace of mind.