The Adoption Process

Family issues can be messy. Whether it's the dissolution of a marriage or a question of guardianship, it is difficult to figure out the applicable legalities that affect each specific situation. The laws that govern these matters also vary greatly by state. Here are three situations in which you should hire an experienced family attorney.

Child Support

Child support matters are usually settled with a divorce decree, but things can change. For example, a child support order is often based on the payee's income at the time. If something happens to dramatically reduce or increase the earnings, either parent may wish to seek an adjustment. If the income has substantially dropped, the payee may seek to have their child support obligation lowered. If the payee's income has substantially increased over the years, the receiver may seek to have their child support payments increased.

Another common problem with child support is the issue of noncompliance. Just because a child support order is in place doesn't mean it is getting regularly paid. Some people will go to crazy extremes to avoid paying their obligation. For example, some people will work for cash under the table—which is illegal—just so they don't have to pay their child support. A family law attorney can help you enforce the current order so you can get the financial resources to adequately care for your child(ren.) This may involve filing a petition to for the payee to appear and explain why they aren't making payments, garnishing the payee's wages or future tax returns, or applying other administrative measures such as revoking their passport or hunting and fishing license.

Paternity

Not every child is produced in a marriage union. Before a judge will impose a child support obligation, the paternity of the child must be legally established. Even if a couple is together but they are not married, it is still important to legally establish paternity as it protects all parties involved. Things can change, and if a relationship goes bad, it's best to have the issue of paternity settled so child support can begin sooner rather than later.

Guardianship

Things happen in life and parents aren't always able or willing to care for their children. Rather than having the child enter a broken foster care system, family members or close friends often step up to the plate to care for the child(ren.) Without an official guardianship order in place, it will be difficult if not impossible to receive aid from social services or claim the tax deductions you deserve. In some cases, receiving child support from the biological parent(s) may also be set up once the guardianship is in place.