If you are getting ready to divorce or have already begun the process, a number of legal questions may lie in front of you. For example, you may be wondering how much time you will be able to spend with your child or whether you will be required to pay alimony. However, child support is an especially important issue to prepare for, whether you expect to receive payments or will be obligated to pay. If you live in Boston, it is essential to understand how child support is calculated in Massachusetts.

According to Commonwealth of Massachusetts, there are a number of factors that courts analyze when calculating child support. In addition to the income of both parents, courts will also take into consideration how many children a couple has. Furthermore, the court will also review parenting time arrangements and expenses related to child care when determining how much child support a parent will owe.

It is also important to recognize that under certain circumstances, courts deviate from typical child support guidelines. For example, if you are behind bars or you have a child with special needs, the amount of child support you are ordered to pay may be different in comparison to other parents. If you are obligated to pay child support, you should do everything you can to avoid becoming delinquent, which may result in harsh penalties.

Please keep in mind that this post is not to be viewed as a substitute for legal advice and was written to shed light on the calculation of child support.