Wayne County Child Support Attorney

The Mitten Law Firm is a dedicated family law firm specializing in Wayne County child support matters. We understand how critical these matters are for parents seeking clarity and security for their children’s future. Whether you are navigating your first support order, seeking a modification, or enforcing an existing order, having the right information—and the right advocate—can make all the difference.

Below, we’ll break down the key aspects of child support law, including how support is calculated, what to expect during court proceedings, and ways to handle common challenges. Our goal is to empower you with practical knowledge so you can make informed decisions that protect your children’s well-being. Let’s get started on making sure your family’s best interests remain the top priority.

How Is Child Support Calculated In Wayne County?

In Michigan, child support is determined primarily through a set of guidelines known as the Michigan Child Support Formula. This formula is designed to ensure that both parents contribute to their children’s financial needs in proportion to their respective incomes and other relevant factors. Although this formula is systematic, every family situation is unique, and courts can deviate from the guidelines under certain circumstances. Below are some key elements the state considers when calculating child support:

Parents’ Incomes

Gross Income: Both parents’ earnings, which may include wages, salaries, tips, overtime pay, bonuses, commissions, and, in some cases, certain types of benefits or investment income.

Potential or Imputed Income: If a parent is unemployed or underemployed without a valid reason, the court may assign an estimated income level (imputed income) based on the parent’s earning potential.

Number of Overnights

Child support calculations take into account how many nights a child spends with each parent. Generally, the more overnights a parent has, the lower their support obligation may be.

Healthcare and Childcare Costs

Costs for medical insurance, out-of-pocket medical expenses, and childcare expenses (e.g., daycare, after-school care) are factored into the formula to ensure these essential needs are covered.

Additional Factors That Determine Child Support Calculations

The court will look at any extraordinary expenses such as educational costs, extracurricular activities, and other special circumstances that may impact the child’s well-being and financial needs.

Child Support Modification

Child support orders are not set in stone. Over time, life circumstances can change in ways that make an existing child support arrangement either insufficient or burdensome. In Wayne County, as in the rest of Michigan, you have the right to seek a modification of your child support order under certain conditions.

Below is a comprehensive overview of how modifications work, what to expect, and how to protect your family’s best interests throughout the process.

Common Reasons to Seek Child Support Modification

Change in Income:

A significant increase or decrease in a parent’s earnings due to job loss, promotion, new job, or reduction in hours may warrant a modification.
If one parent becomes permanently disabled or otherwise unable to work, this could also necessitate an adjustment.

Change in Parenting Time:

Child support in Michigan is partially based on the number of overnights each parent has with the child. If there is a substantial change in the parenting schedule, support calculations may need to be updated accordingly.

Change in the Child’s Needs:

Children’s needs evolve as they grow, and unexpected medical or educational expenses may arise. If these changes are significant, a modification request could be appropriate.

Get A Free Child Support or Family Law Consultation