This is the first article in a series which will discuss the handling of Melbourne, Florida child support cases in which one parent is “underemployed.” I am writing on this topic due to the fact that, for obvious reasons, a parent will be frustrated when they feel their counterpart is not paying their fair share of support. If, however, the person is paying a low amount due to their having a low income, then the law may consider them to be underemployed and the Court may be willing to order a higher monthly payment. The goal of my next several articles is to provide information which will help people to fully understand their situation. It is also my goal to provide information which will help you make an informed choice when you are selecting an attorney. If you require assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will be addressing several subjects over the course of this series. Topics which I will analyze include:
- The effect of a parent being underemployed
- Proving underemployment
- The process of collecting child support arrears
There are several reasons why parents must understand these topics. First, if a parent is choosing to earn an amount less than what they are capable of then the Court may order them to pay support as if their income was higher. Second, the Court will not automatically find that a parent is underemployed simply because they are earning little money. It must be shown that the parent is choosing to earn an amount which is less than what they are capable of. Finally, underemployment is an issue which often arises when a parent is attempting to collect child support arrears. This is why I will also address the topic of how to collect any such arrears.
If you wish to show that your ex is capable of earning more money, and that they should have a higher monthly payment, then it is important to contact a Melbourne child support lawyer. Proving underemployment can involve complex legal issues and it is best to retain experienced counsel. I have handled many such matters on behalf of parents and I am ready to assist you. Contact my office today to speak with an attorney. We also service clients in the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.