Framingham Child Custody Lawyer
Massachusetts Child Custody | What's Best for the Child?
Massachusetts child custody laws focus on the needs of the child and on which person can best meet those needs.
As a result, the court will seek the best and least disruptive living arrangements for a child following the divorce while, if possible, maintaining that child's continuing relationships with both parents.
Further, the court will weigh factors including the child's adjustment to new circumstances within his/her family, school and other groups; the quality of his/her relationships with each parent; which parent has had the most responsibility for the child's care; and whether the child was physically or sexually abused or was subjected to substance abuse or abandonment. The law does not favor one parent over another on the basis of gender.
At the Law Office of Michael J. Brothers in Framingham, Massachusetts, we can help you pursue child custody and visitation rights through a required parenting plan. For more information or to consult with an attorney, call us at 508-802-4570 or 888-873-1695 toll free.
How Much Will I Pay? | How Much Should I Receive?
Massachusetts has guidelines to determine the amount of child support a child receives according to a complex formula that accounts for several factors including:
- Gross income of noncustodial parent
- Gross income of custodial parent
- Ages of children to be supported (must be younger than 18 and up to age 24 if in higher education)
- Number of children to be supported
- Medical, dental and other health care costs
- Child care/day care costs
Variations of these amounts, as well as which parent is providing certain means of support — for instance, if the noncustodial parent provides health insurance coverage for a child — can affect the total amount of child support that is due.
Minimum Threshold, Maximum Payment
Massachusetts guidelines set limits on the amounts of child support noncustodial parents must pay and both parents' income is included in the child support calculation.
The minimum child support payment for a low-income, noncustodial parent is $88 per month. Child support payments for noncustodial parents generally increase with income until the combined income of both parents exceeds $250,000. A judge may include additional amounts of child support above this threshold, if deemed necessary.
Framingham Child Custody Attorney | Natick Child Support Attorney
Massachusetts child custody and child support disputes are complicated, but with the help of an experienced lawyer, you can get an arrangement that is fair and works for you. When possible we work for negotiated settlements, but when necessary, we are ready and able to fight for your interests at trial.
For a free initial consultation or for more information about our services, contact us online at 508-802-4570 or 888-873-1695 toll free.
