A child support case involves complicated legal principles as well a complex court procedures. Finding yourself facing a child support case, seriously consider obtaining representation from an experienced attorney. Qualified legal representation provides you with the best ability to protect your rights and pursue your interests in child support litigation.
Significance
No matter which side of the fence you find yourself in a child support case, a great deal is at stake. As the custodial parent, you must ensure that you receive proper financial support for your child. Conversely, if you are the non-custodial parent you need to ensure that a child support calculation appropriately is made so that an undue and illegal financial burden is not placed upon yourself. An experienced attorney is in the best position to protect these significant interests, according to the American Bar Association Section of Family Law.
Types
Attorneys specialize in different aspects of family law cases, according to the American Bar Association. These include attorneys in some jurisdictions that focus their practices on assisting parents involved in child support proceedings. If you find yourself involved in a particularly complicated child support dispute, a focused specialist of this nature may be in your best interests.
Misconceptions
A common misconception associated with legal representation and child support cases is that an attorney is not necessary. Some litigants conclude that they can master the judicial process in a child support case on their own. The reality is that ultimately retaining legal counsel--even private counsel paid for out of your pocket--ends up being a wise investment. Even after paying attorney fees, because an attorney better understands the ins and outs of a child support interests, you protect your financial interests more substantially with a lawyer at your side.
Private Counsel
Local and state bar associations usually maintain resources for consumers seeking legal representation. This includes men and women in need of an attorney in a child support case. The ABA can also direct you to no or low cost attorneys. Contact information for these organizations is available to you through the American Bar Association:
American Bar Association
321 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60654-7598
312-988-5000
abanet.org
Pro Bono Lawyers
Not all parents can afford to hire a private attorney. A variety of different organizations exist that provide resources for people unable to pay for a lawyer in a child support case. Information on legal aid organizations in your region is available through the online Legal Aid Society Directory (See Resources).
References
- American Bar Association: Section of Family Law
- "The Child Support Battle: Methods for Fathers to Reduce or Suspend and Get Paid by Paying Child Support"; John Christopher; 2005
- "Girl, Get that Child Support"; Cathy Middleton; 2006
