When establishing child support, accuracy is everything. There are set guidelines used to calculate the support amount for each parent. While these are fairly straightforward, it’s critical to carefully review each section before submitting them to the court.

It’s also important to understand the enforcement of the law for payment of non-child support, as well as how to modify child support amounts should situations change. At a minimum, the law requires state child support guidelines to be reviewed every four years to define what’s mandated by each parent.

Our team is here to help you navigate what’s required by the court and provide clarity to help you fight for what’s accurate.

Arizona Child Support Guidelines are mandated when there is a divorce with children or when an unwed parent must pay child support who is lawfully theirs. There are several ways to establish child support. 

One option is to reach an agreement with the other parent through mediation or negotiation. This agreement can then be filed with the court. Another is to have the court make a decision on child support. In this case, both parents will need to appear before a judge and present evidence about their financial situation. The judge will then decide how much child support should be paid.

How is child support calculated in AZ?

The amount of child support owed depends on several factors, such as the income of both parents, the needs of the child(ren), and the parenting schedule. It’s calculated using the computer-based Child Support Worksheet which indicates fields that must be filled out with the necessary data. Unless the court finds the amount to be unjust, the amount becomes the court-ordered child support obligation. 

How much is child support in Arizona per child?

Following state and federal law, the court uses the Arizona Child Support Guidelines to determine the amount of child support owed. This model considers the income of both parents, approximates the amount that would’ve been spent on each child if both parents and child(ren) lived together, and calculates the proportionate share of each parent accordingly. 

What happens if you don't pay child support in Arizona?

Failure to pay child support in Arizona may result in a wage assignment, garnished wages, a property lien, and/or other legal consequences. If you’ve fallen behind on child support payments, it’s important to speak with an attorney to determine your options.

Child Support Modification

There may be circumstances necessitating a child support modification. Some of the reasons may include changes in:

• Income

• Number of children

• Parenting schedule

• Needs of the children

It’s critical to keep your child support order up to date. We will work with you to make sure the new order is fair and continues to meet your child's needs.

Talk with an Arizona Child Support Attorney

Whether you are seeking a modification of the child support guidelines, have been unsuccessful in receiving child support, or seek counsel regarding non-payment of child support, we can help. Get in touch with our attorneys today.