Baltimore Child Support Attorneys
Assisting Clients With Child Support Matters in Maryland
In Maryland, parents must support their children. When a court decides on a fair and just child custody arrangement committed to the best interests of the child, child support will likely be a factor to address. Because of this, noncustodial parents are required to pay child support in accordance with specific guidelines. The custodian of a minor child, including a custodial parent, aunts, uncles, grandparents, court-appointed guardians, and others caring for the child, is eligible for child support services.
As of now, Maryland parents are obligated to support their child until the age of emancipation. It is assumed that a child is a minor until the age of 18. This could be extended if the child is still enrolled in high school or has special needs. Maryland uses an income-sharing model for its child support guidelines, taking many factors into account when determining what is fair and just to the parents and meets the best interests of the child. Albers & Associates recognizes how significant this legal matter is, and we work tirelessly to guide clients towards the best possible conclusion. With the experience you need and the tenacity to fight for your rights, contact Albers & Associates for a consultation.
Call us today at (443) 665-8030 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Baltimore child support lawyer.
How to Modify or Enforce Child Support Orders
Child support orders can change over time as families experience new circumstances. In Baltimore, either parent can ask the court to modify an existing child support order if there is a significant change, such as a shift in income, changes in custody, or new financial needs for the child. For a modification, the requesting parent must present clear documentation showing the change in circumstances. Courts look for evidence that the change is substantial and impacts the child’s well-being. If parents reach a new agreement, the court usually reviews it to ensure it meets the child's best interests and the state's guidelines. Understanding the process and what qualifies as a significant change is essential in building a strong case before the Baltimore Circuit Court.
Enforcing a child support order is equally important for the child's welfare. The Maryland Child Support Administration manages enforcement actions in Baltimore, including wage withholding, intercepting tax returns, and suspending licenses for those who do not pay child support. If you are owed support and the other party falls behind or stops making payments, you can apply to the court for assistance in enforcing the order. Responding promptly and collecting thorough documentation, such as payment records and correspondence, strengthens your case when you seek help through the local court system. Communication between the involved parties—and, when needed, with legal professionals—ensures you pursue every legal means available to secure support for your child.
What Happens When Child Support Payments Are Missed?
Missed child support payments can cause hardship for children and families who rely on that support. Maryland law gives several tools to address missed payments, especially when handled through the Baltimore City Circuit Court or local Child Support Administration offices. The court may take steps such as garnishing wages, intercepting tax refunds, or placing liens on property to recover overdue support. In some cases, the court can suspend a nonpaying parent’s driver’s or occupational license, which underscores the seriousness of the obligation. Judges have wide discretion to determine which enforcement method fits a particular case, always prioritizing the child’s welfare above all else.
Sometimes, a parent falls behind due to sudden job loss, medical emergencies, or other unavoidable circumstances. Parents in these situations should communicate with the court and seek a modification before missing multiple payments, as this can help avoid harsher enforcement actions. Documenting any efforts to pay or maintain communication with the other parent can show the court that you are committed to your child’s needs, even during difficult times. Baltimore’s local courts often encourage open dialogue and proactive scheduling of hearings to resolve issues before they escalate.
The Maryland Child Support Administration supports families throughout this process, offering forms and information to file for enforcement or repayment plans. Working with legal professionals familiar with the region’s court systems can help you understand your rights and options, protecting your family from undue financial stress caused by missed payments.
Factors That Help Determine Child Support
There are numerous factors that can impact the financial obligation of the parties regarding child support. The most significant matter is often the child custody structure. Because it costs more to care for the child more of the time, the non-custodial parent may have to pay more to offset the greater financial burden on the other. As stated above, child support guidelines in Maryland are based on income and take into account factors, including:
- Income from both parents
- Number of children
- Cost of health insurance for the child(ren)
- Current child support being paid for another child
- Alimony being paid or received
- Cost of daycare
- Cost of extraordinary medical expenses for the child(ren).
When Does Child Support End in Maryland?
In Maryland, child support is presumed to end at the age of 18. There are some exceptions. For one, if the child is disabled, the noncustodial parent may still be responsible for support, sometimes indefinitely. Maryland law does not force parents to pay for college or support their children as they pursue a higher education. If the parents agreed to pay for college through a written agreement, a court will often support that contract. If the parents can prove that their child should be considered “emancipated” or that they are financially independent over the age of 18, a court may rule in favor of terminating the obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can child support in Baltimore be set higher or lower than guideline amounts?
Judges in Baltimore usually follow Maryland’s Child Support Guidelines, but they may set a higher or lower amount in special cases. For example, a judge may deviate if there are extraordinary expenses or unusual financial circumstances that affect the child’s welfare.
What if the other parent moves out of Maryland?
If one parent moves out of state, Maryland can still enforce a child support order with help from federal and state agencies. The court may coordinate with other states to collect or modify child support when needed.
How often can a child support order be reviewed?
Parents may ask the Baltimore court or Child Support Administration to review an order every three years, or sooner if there is a significant change in income, custody, or the child’s needs. Reviews help ensure that the support amount stays fair and appropriate as the situation evolves.
Contact Our Baltimore Child Support Attorney Today
When dealing with a significant legal issue, you need a committed team on your side. Albers & Associates advocates for every client. Whether you are a custodial or noncustodial parent, you have rights regarding child support. Our firm considers every legal avenue to help clients reach a positive resolution. For a Baltimore, Maryland child support attorney ready to protect your rights and your future, contact Albers & Associates.
Contact us today to get started with our child support attorney in Baltimore.