Child Support Lawyer in West Palm Beach
Children are entitled to financial support from both parents, and Florida law provides a structured way to calculate it. At Brunelli Law, P.A., attorney Marjorie Brunelli helps parents throughout Palm Beach County — including West Palm Beach, Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and Boynton Beach — understand their rights and obligations regarding child support, in English and Portuguese.
Florida’s Income-Shares Guidelines
Florida calculates child support using an income-shares model under section 61.30 of the Florida Statutes. A child should receive roughly the same proportion of parental income the child would have received if the parents lived together. The calculation combines both parents’ net incomes, applies the statutory guideline based on combined income and the number of children, and allocates the obligation between the parents in proportion to their incomes. The number of overnights each parent has also affects the amount.
What Goes Into the Calculation
The guideline starts with each parent’s net income, which is gross income minus allowable deductions such as taxes. Beyond the base amount, the calculation typically accounts for the cost of the child’s health insurance, reasonable and necessary work-related childcare costs, and uncovered medical expenses. Because the inputs matter so much, accurate financial disclosure is essential.
Deviations From the Guideline Amount
The guideline amount is the presumptive figure, but a court may order more or less when circumstances justify it. A judge can deviate by a limited percentage based on relevant factors, and by a greater amount with a written explanation. Factors include a child’s special medical or educational needs, a child’s own income, or particular time-sharing arrangements.
Modifying a Child Support Order
Child support is not permanently fixed. Either parent may ask the court to modify the amount when there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in either parent’s income, a change in the time-sharing schedule, or a change in the child’s needs. A modification applies going forward; it does not erase amounts already due.
Enforcing a Child Support Order
When a parent fails to pay court-ordered support, Florida provides several enforcement tools, including income withholding from wages, interception of tax refunds, suspension of a driver’s or professional license, liens, and in serious cases a finding of contempt. We help parents on both sides of these disputes pursue a fair and lawful resolution.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice.
West Palm Beach Child Support FAQ
How is child support calculated in Florida?
Florida uses an income-shares model under section 61.30. It combines both parents’ net incomes, applies the statutory guideline, and divides the obligation in proportion to each parent’s income, adjusted for overnights and certain expenses.
Does the time-sharing schedule affect the amount?
Yes. The number of overnights each parent spends with the child is part of the guideline calculation and can affect the final amount.
Are childcare and health insurance included?
Generally yes. The cost of the child’s health insurance and reasonable, work-related childcare costs are typically factored in and shared between the parents.
Can the support amount be changed later?
Yes. Either parent may request a modification when there is a substantial change in circumstances. Changes apply going forward.
What happens if the other parent stops paying?
Florida offers enforcement remedies including income withholding, tax refund interception, license suspension, liens, and contempt proceedings.
Is help available in Portuguese?
Yes. Brunelli Law provides services in both English and Portuguese.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have questions about child support in West Palm Beach or Palm Beach County, Brunelli Law can help you understand the guidelines and your options. Call 954-474-7703 to schedule a consultation with attorney Marjorie Brunelli.