Experienced family law attorneys represent custodial and noncustodial Louisiana parents

Several factors go into child support determinations under Louisiana law. In addition to the standard formula, it might be in everyone’s best interests to establish particular terms concerning education costs, extracurricular activities or special medical needs. Our Lake Charles firm, Stockwell, Sievert, Viccellio, Clements & Shaddock, L.L.P., advises parents on all types of child support issues from the setting of payment terms to assisting with modifications and enforcement so that their children’s financial welfare is protected.

Knowledgeable legal counselors advise on child support guidelines

Though it is accepted that noncustodial parents should help pay for the costs of raising their child, many disagreement still arise. When they do, we use our decades of family law experience to see that clients are well prepared and have a thorough understanding of child support by advising on:

• Guidelines — Both parents must provide a verified income statement, and a payment amount is determined in part by calculating the percentage that each parent contributes to the total income. Other factors include how many other children the parties have and the amounts each side pays in day care and health insurance costs.
• Mediation — In many cases, figuring out an appropriate child support amount involves facts that aren’t considered within the standard state formula. When complications exist or parents dispute the truth of information provided, mediation might be the best way to achieve a compromise that everyone can accept. Mediation is beneficial because parents can use the money they would have spent on court costs to adjust to their new situation and pay for their child’s needs.
• Litigation — If litigation is necessary to resolve a child support question fairly, our lawyers are strong advocates who handle conflicts about paternity, the accuracy of submitted information, accusations of depressing income and other disputes. No matter the particular concern, we take every possible step to secure a favorable result promptly and efficiently.

During disputes over child support and other aspects of Louisiana divorce, such as child custody and alimony determinations, our accomplished family lawyers keep clients apprised of case developments and options at all times so they can make informed choices about how to proceed.

Diligent advocates guide clients when modifications are requested

A material change to the circumstances that go into formulating a child support order can justify a modification under Louisiana law. Before you seek a revision, it’s important to understand what type of circumstance is considered sufficient. Representing both custodial and noncustodial parents, we prepare and oppose Rules to Modify Child Support in state courts. Whether the potential change stems from a job loss, pay raise, medical situation, shift in childcare arrangements or something else, our lawyers give parents the ability to make the strongest argument possible.

Proven litigators handle child support enforcement proceedings

Child support orders should be honored to the letter. Even one missed payment could create problems for a son or daughter. It’s important to remember that even if there might seem to be compelling reasons to change child support, such as financial setback or a refusal to abide by visitation terms, a parent cannot take action on their own. If your co-parent is violating a child support order or you believe you’ve been wrongly accused of failing to make the required payment, we will take quick legal action on your behalf. Under the provisions of the state’s Child Support Enforcement department, income can be diverted, driving privileges can be revoked and contempt proceedings can be brought against a noncustodial parent in order to collect what’s owed.

Contact an experienced Louisiana attorney for assistance with a child support matter

Stockwell, Sievert, Viccellio, Clements & Shaddock, L.L.P. advocates on behalf of Louisiana parents in child support proceedings, including modification and enforcement actions. For a consultation with one of our attorneys at our Lake Charles office, please call 337-436-9491 or contact us online.