Will the Support Order always equal the amount determined by the formula?

No. In deciding whether to deviate from the amount of support determined by the guidelines, the DRS, in order to avoid an unjust or inappropriate award, will consider only the following factors:

  • Ages of the children
  • In a Spousal Support or Alimony Pendente Lite case, the period of time during which the parties lived together from the date of the marriage to the date of the final separation
  • Medical expenses not covered by insurance
  • Other income in the household
  • Other support obligations of the parties
  • Standard of living of the parties and their children
  • Unusual needs and unusual fixed obligations
  • Other relevant and appropriate factors, including the best interest of the child(ren)

Show All Answers

1. On what income is child support based?
2. What do you consider income when calculating a child support obligation?
3. What happens to my case for support after the complaint is filed?
4. Do I have to agree with the Conference Officer with regard to the amount of support recommended?
5. How are the guidelines applied in order to determine what amount of support would be reasonable?
6. Can a support order be stopped or reduced if the defendant quits or assumes a lower paying job?
7. Will the Support Order always equal the amount determined by the formula?
8. Will someone have to provide medical insurance?
9. Must I use my support money to pay the mortgage, medical, or child care expenses?
10. Will the Court order the parents to pay for private school tuition, summer camp or other needs not addressed by the guidelines?
11. Will the Court order the parents to pay college tuition?