Our firm represents clients located in the San Jose, Santa Clara County, California area requiring assistance and advice in family law matters relating to child support.

As part of a divorce (dissolution of marriage), dissolution of a domestic partnership, legal separation, parental relationship case, or often In a domestic violence proceeding, one parent can be ordered to pay the other parent support for their child or children. The amount of support is generally determined on the basis of each parent's income and respective financial situations, as well as the amount of time each parent spends with the child(ren). Child support orders often require that each parent also pay one-half of any daycare and one-half of medical and dental costs that are not covered by health insurance (such as co-payments).

The amount of child support and additional child support (like daycare expenses) can be quite large, so it is a good idea to get legal advice right away if you are going to court on a child support matter. Under California law, the state guideline for child support is established in the Family Code, but the courts and most attorneys use computer programs (such as DissoMaster and SupportTax) that use these guidelines to calculate the amount of monthly support. It is also possible for the support amount to be altered at a later date if either parent files the appropriate motion with the court, given the proper circumstances. Ernest has extensive experience dealing with both initial child support determinations and in modifying orders or assisting in collecting unpaid support.

Child support decisions are very important given that they deal with your child's lifestyle and future, as well as your own. Our goal is to work toward a fair resolution of your concerns, with a very responsive, compassionate and competent approach to the process, whether in court or negotiated outside court. We are as aggressive as necessary but we have a firm commitment not to over-litigate our clients' cases and do as much as possible to seek an early, equitable conclusion in all matters.

Contact us online or call us at (408) 279-1100 to set up a free phone consultation to learn more about your child support options.