Allegheny County Support Tips
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Introduction
Welcome to Berggren & Turturice, your reliable legal advisors in Allegheny County. As experts in family law matters, we understand the challenges you may face when it comes to obtaining the necessary support for you and your loved ones. In this comprehensive guide, we provide you with valuable tips to help you navigate the support system in Allegheny County effectively.
Child Support
Child support is a crucial aspect of ensuring the well-being and upbringing of your children after a separation or divorce. In Allegheny County, the guidelines for determining child support are primarily based on the Pennsylvania Child Support Guidelines. Understanding these guidelines can help you estimate and negotiate a fair amount of support for your child.
Calculating Child Support
The first step in calculating child support is determining the gross monthly income of both parents. This includes salaries, wages, self-employment income, commissions, bonuses, and various other sources. Once the gross incomes are established, they are used to compute the basic child support amount based on the number of children involved and the applicable percentage of income.
It's important to note that additional expenses, such as healthcare and childcare costs, may also be factored into the child support calculation. Familiarize yourself with the specific procedures and guidelines in Allegheny County to ensure accuracy during the calculation process.
Modifications and Enforcement
Life circumstances change, and child support orders may need modification to reflect these changes. If you experience a substantial change in your financial situation or believe that the current support order is unfair, you have the right to request a modification from the court.
Enforcement of child support orders is equally important to ensure that the payments are made as ordered. The Allegheny County Domestic Relations Office provides various avenues to enforce support orders, including income withholding, tax intercepts, and contempt proceedings.
Spousal Support
In addition to child support, spousal support may also be a pertinent factor in divorce cases. Spousal support, also known as alimony or spousal maintenance, is financial assistance provided by one spouse to the other during and/or after a divorce.
Allegheny County, like other jurisdictions, considers several factors when determining spousal support, such as the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of both parties, the standard of living during the marriage, and the financial needs and resources of each spouse.
Types of Spousal Support
In Allegheny County, there are three types of spousal support to consider:
- Spousal Support Pendente Lite (SSPL): This type of support is awarded while the divorce case is ongoing.
- Alimony Pendente Lite (APL): Alimony Pendente Lite is awarded after the divorce case is filed but before the actual divorce is finalized.
- Alimony: Alimony may be awarded after a divorce is finalized, and its duration may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
Modification and Termination of Spousal Support
Similar to child support, spousal support orders may also be modified or terminated under certain circumstances. Significant changes in income, cohabitation, remarriage, or any other substantial change in circumstances may warrant modification or termination of spousal support. Consult with an experienced attorney to assess your specific situation and understand the options available to you.
Legal Assistance and Resources
Obtaining accurate and reliable legal guidance is essential when dealing with family law matters, including support-related issues in Allegheny County.
Berggren & Turturice, located in Allegheny County, specializes in family law and has a team of experienced attorneys dedicated to providing personalized support and guidance. We understand the intricacies of Allegheny County's legal system and can help you navigate through it effectively.
Conclusion
When it comes to support matters in Allegheny County, Berggren & Turturice is here to assist you. By following the guidelines, understanding the calculation methods, and seeking the right legal representation, you can ensure a fair and just outcome for you and your loved ones.
Contact Berggren & Turturice today to schedule a consultation and let us help you with your support-related concerns.
