Child Support

Every parent has a responsibility to provide for their child. When parents separate or divorce, ensuring children receive the financial support they need is critical. At McNary Law, our child support attorneys guide Bradenton and Sarasota families through establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, always prioritizing the best interests of the child.

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Child Support in Florida

Florida law requires both parents to contribute to the financial needs of their children. Child support is calculated using state guidelines that consider:

Each parent’s income
The number of children
Time-sharing (custody) arrangements
Healthcare, daycare, and education expenses
Special needs or extraordinary expenses

While the guidelines provide a formula, courts may adjust support amounts in special circumstances. Our attorneys ensure calculations are accurate and fair.

Establishing Child Support

Child support can be established as part of a divorce, paternity action, or child custody case. Even if parents agree on an amount, a judge must approve the order to ensure it meets legal standards. McNary Law helps parents through the process, whether they are seeking support or responding to a claim.

Enforcing Child Support

If a parent fails to pay child support, Florida law offers strong enforcement tools, including:

Wage garnishment
Driver’s license suspension
Seizure of tax refunds
Contempt of court proceedings

We help parents enforce child support orders so children receive the financial stability they deserve.

Modifying Child Support

Life circumstances can change after a child support order is entered. Florida law allows modifications if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as:

A significant increase or decrease in income
A change in time-sharing arrangements
New healthcare or childcare expenses
Job loss or disability

Our attorneys help parents request or defend against modifications to ensure child support orders remain fair and appropriate.

Child Support FAQs

How long does child support last in Florida?
Generally until the child turns 18, but it may continue if the child is still in high school or has special needs.

Can parents agree to no child support?
No. Even if both parents agree, child support must comply with Florida guidelines and be approved by a court.

What if the other parent doesn’t pay?
The court can enforce the order using penalties like wage garnishment, license suspension, or contempt charges.

Does child support cover college expenses?
Florida law does not require support past age 18 unless the child is still in high school or has disabilities. Parents may agree to share college expenses in a settlement.

Why Choose McNary Law?

At McNary Law, we know child support cases involve more than numbers — they involve your child’s future. Guided by our core values of honesty, integrity, and compassionate problem-solving, we help families in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Manatee County achieve child support outcomes that are fair and protect children’s needs.