Child Support

NYC Child Support Lawyer

Ensuring Fair Support for Your Children's Needs

17-35%
Income Percentage
$163K
Income Cap 2024
1000+
Support Cases
98%
Collection Rate

Experienced Child Support Attorneys in NYC

Child support ensures your children maintain their standard of living after divorce. Our attorneys navigate New York's complex support guidelines to secure fair arrangements that meet your children's needs while protecting your financial stability.

New York Child Support Guidelines

17% of income for one child
25% of income for two children
29% of income for three children
31% of income for four children
35% minimum for five or more children
Combined income cap: $163,000 (2024)

What Child Support Covers

  • Basic necessities (food, clothing, shelter)
  • Medical and dental care not covered by insurance
  • Educational expenses and school supplies
  • Childcare and babysitting costs
  • Transportation expenses
  • Extracurricular activities and sports
  • Entertainment and recreation
  • College expenses (by agreement or court order)

Calculating Child Support

1Income Determination

Calculate both parents' gross income from all sources

2Apply Percentage

Use guideline percentages based on number of children

3Add-On Expenses

Include childcare, medical, and educational costs

4Deviation Factors

Adjust for special circumstances or high income

5Final Order

Court reviews and approves support amount

Common Child Support Issues

Hidden Income

Uncovering unreported earnings or assets

Self-Employment

Determining true income for business owners

Imputed Income

When parent is voluntarily unemployed

High Income Cases

Support above the statutory cap

Modification Triggers

Job loss or significant income change (15%+)
Changes in custody arrangements
Child's increased needs (medical, educational)
Three years since last order
Remarriage or new children
Cost of living adjustments

Protecting Your Children's Financial Future

Whether establishing initial support, seeking modifications, or enforcing existing orders, we ensure your children receive the financial support they deserve. Our attorneys combine detailed financial analysis with aggressive advocacy to achieve optimal outcomes.

Enforcement Actions We Take

  • Income withholding orders
  • Asset freezing and liens
  • License suspension (driver's, professional)
  • Contempt of court proceedings
  • Credit bureau reporting
  • Tax refund interception
  • Passport denial
  • Criminal prosecution for willful non-payment

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated in NYC?

New York uses a percentage of combined parental income: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 35% for five or more children, applied to combined income up to $163,000.

Can child support be modified?

Yes, support can be modified when there's a substantial change in circumstances, such as a 15% change in income, job loss, changes in custody, or after three years.

What if my ex doesn't pay child support?

We can pursue enforcement through wage garnishment, asset liens, license suspension, and contempt proceedings. The Support Collection Unit can also assist with enforcement.

Does child support cover college expenses?

In New York, courts can order parents to contribute to college expenses, considering factors like parents' financial resources and the child's academic ability.

Ready to Protect Your Rights?

Get experienced legal representation from NYC's premier divorce attorneys

SPODEK LAW GROUP

TREATING YOU LIKE FAMILY SINCE 1976

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

24/7 Free Consultation • No Obligation Case Review

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