Key Factors for the Judges to Use for Deciding the Amount of Child Support
If you married in Australia and have lived there for years, but suddenly a divorce is the only option for you, think about your children. Migration to Australia can get rough, but you should never compromise your children. When it comes to child support, the courts consider several different factors when making their decision. To ensure that you are getting a fair amount of child support that you’ll receive or give, it is essential to understand these factors. This blog post will discuss some of the key factors judges look at when deciding how much child support should be paid. Keep reading to learn more.
Each Parent’s Income
The first key factor judges look at when deciding how much child support should be paid is each parent’s income. They will consider things like your salary, any bonuses or overtime you receive, and any other sources of income you may have. They will also look at your spouse’s income and determine a fair amount based on what each of you is bringing in. The judges look at is the amount of time each parent spends with the child. If one parent is working full-time and the other is staying home with the child, then it stands to reason that the working parent will have to pay more in support.
Number and Ages of Children
Another critical factor that judges look at when deciding how much child support should be paid is the number and ages of children. If you have more than one child, you will likely have to pay more support than someone who only has one child. Additionally, if your children are younger, you may have to pay more in support because they will likely need more care than older children.
Living Costs in the Area
Of course, another critical factor that judges look at when deciding how much child support should be paid is the living cost in the area. If you live in a city with a high cost of living, you will likely have to pay more in support than someone who lives in a more rural area. Things like food and housing tend to be more expensive in cities. Don’t be so shocked knowing that the amount of child support you’ll have to pay will be higher if you live in a metropolitan city.
Healthcare and Child Care Costs
Moreover, another key factor that judges look at when deciding how much child support should be paid is healthcare and child care costs. If your children have special needs or require regular medical care, you will likely have to pay more in support. Additionally, if you are paying for childcare, the court may factor that into their decision.
All of these factors are key factors that judges look at when deciding how much child support should be paid. It is essential to keep them in mind when you are going through divorce and child support. Remember, the goal is to ensure that your children are taken care of and have what they need.