Child Support and High-Income Cases

Securing Your Child's Financial Future

In all we do, we strive to secure the best interests of the child. Whether you will be receiving or paying child support, we will do everything in our power to make sure your child is set up for a bright future. Our expertise in California's complex support guidelines ensures that calculations are fair and that all relevant income and expenses are properly accounted for.

California's Guideline Formula

California uses a statewide uniform guideline formula (Family Code §4055) to calculate child support based on each parent's net disposable income and the percentage of time each parent has physical custody. While the formula provides a starting point, numerous factors can affect the final amount, including bonus income, stock options, self-employment income, and tax implications.

What We Handle

• Initial child support orders
• Support modifications based on changed circumstances
• High-income and complex income cases
• Self-employment and business owner income analysis
• Imputation of income for underemployed parents
• Add-on expenses (childcare, healthcare, education, travel)
• Support enforcement and contempt proceedings
• Emancipation and termination of support

Duration of Child Support

Under Family Code §3901, child support generally continues until the child turns 18, or 19 if the child is still a full-time high school student and not self-supporting. Support may also terminate upon the child's marriage, registration of a domestic partnership, entry into active military duty, or emancipation by court order. A parent should never unilaterally stop paying court-ordered support — even if a terminating event has occurred, the proper course is to file a motion to terminate the order.

Our Approach

We work with forensic accountants and vocational evaluators when necessary to ensure that all sources of income are identified and properly calculated. Whether your case involves straightforward W-2 income or complex business and investment earnings, we have the expertise to protect your interests and your child's financial well-being.