If you have separated from your spouse and have children, there is a good chance you must pay (or receive) child support. Usually, the court determines the amount of child support and outlines it in the legal child support documents.
Unfortunately, if child support has not been established for your situation yet, you may have heard (and believe) some of the myths about this topic. This can make it seem like a skewed system that doesn’t keep the child’s best interest in mind. Learning the truth about these myths will benefit you in the long run.
Myth: It’s always the father that’s ordered to pay child support
This is not the case. The financial obligations of each parent are considered based on factors like what they earn, the child custody agreement and other objective guidelines. With this foundation for establishing child support payments, the mother or father may be ordered to pay.
Myth: Parents who don’t have at least partial custody don’t have to pay child support
While one parent may not be given legal visitation with their child, it does not mean their financial obligations are eliminated. They may still be required to pay child support since they still must do so.
Myth: Neither parent pays child custody in a joint custody arrangement
This is not always the case. In this situation, the court will consider the parent’s financial situation and the child’s needs when with each parent. These factors are considered to determine if child support is paid in a joint custody arrangement.
As you can see, there are several myths about child custody arrangements in Georgia. Understanding the truth will help prepare you for your situation and allow you to make more informed decisions about your future.
