In Pennsylvania, child support is regulated and enforced by the Department of Public Welfare, Bureau of Child Support Enforcement. Child support is required in order to help children get the food, clothing, shelter, and other basic needs that they need. In order to apply for child support, the individual must contact the court and file a complaint. In cases where the parents were not married at the time of the child's birth, it may be required that they prove paternity. The amount of child support differs on a case by case by basis and is regulated by the Pennsylvania Support Guideline. It will take into account the parents' monthly income and the costs relating to the child, such as private school, medical expenses, camps, etc.
Once the amount has been determined, a support order will be given. This order will include details regarding how much the individual has to pay as well as the frequency of the payments. This order can be appealed if one or both of the individuals does not believe that it is fair. The courts also take into account the fact that modifying a child support order may be necessary in the future. When their circumstances change, they are able to ask the court to review their situation and see if a modification is in order.
Even if the parents do not request a modification, the authorities will ask them every three years if they want a review of their case. Examples of reasons why a support order may need to be modified includes a significant change in the parents income, added expenses for the child, or the child graduated high school or turned 18. If you have more questions about child support in Pennsylvania, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team at Rosen Family Law Group so that we can review your case.
