Orlando Child Support FAQ

Are you wondering how child support works in Orlando, FL? If you have questions about payments, modifications, or enforcement, the family law team at McMichen, Cinami & Demps can help. Call our office today at (407) 898-2161 for a free consultation with an experienced Orlando child support lawyer.

Child support is one of the most important issues parents face during or after a separation. Understanding how Florida handles support can help you make informed decisions for your family.

Why Choose McMichen, Cinami & Demps to Help With Child Support in Orlando?

Choosing the right law firm can make child support cases feel more manageable, especially when emotions and finances are involved. At McMichen, Cinami & Demps, our legal team brings over 50 years of combined experience in family law to parents throughout Orlando, FL. We understand how stressful child support issues can be, and we’re here to guide you with clarity and confidence.

Our team includes an attorney who is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law, as well as attorneys trained in collaborative law. These qualifications allow us to approach each case with both deep legal knowledge and practical strategies that promote stability for your family.

Whether you’re establishing support, modifying an existing order, or dealing with unpaid support, our firm works to keep your child’s best interests at the center of every decision. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an Orlando child support attorney.

What Is Child Support in Florida?

Child support is money one parent pays to help cover the cost of raising a child. Florida law requires both parents to support their children, even if they no longer live together. Support covers food, housing, clothes, school needs, health care, and other essentials.

The amount of support is not based on what a parent wants to pay. Instead, Florida uses a formula that considers income, overnight parenting schedules, health insurance costs, and child care expenses. The goal is to ensure the child receives the same level of financial support they would have if both parents lived in one home.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Orlando?

Florida uses the Child Support Guidelines found in Florida Statutes § 61.30. These guidelines look at each parent’s income and combine it to determine the total support need. The court then assigns a portion to each parent based on their share of the combined income.

The guideline calculation considers several factors:

• Each parent’s gross monthly income
• Health insurance for the child
• Child care costs
• Overnight parenting time
• Other children either parent supports

After reviewing the guideline worksheet, the court enters an order that becomes legally binding. Even if parents agree on a different amount, the judge must approve it to ensure it meets legal standards.

Understanding these factors helps parents know what to expect before going to court.

Do Overnight Visits Affect Child Support?

Yes. Florida uses a “parenting time adjustment” when a child spends at least 20 percent of nights per year (73 overnights) with the other parent. More parenting time usually reduces the amount of support because both parents are sharing daily costs.

If the number of overnights changes, support may also need to be updated. Keeping accurate records and a clear parenting schedule is important if either parent asks for a modification later.

When Can Child Support Be Modified?

Child support is not permanent. Florida allows parents to request a change when there is a substantial, permanent, and involuntary change in circumstances. This usually means a big shift that lasts at least a year.

Common reasons for modification include:

• A significant change in income
• A change in parenting time
• New child care or insurance costs
• Job loss or medical issues

Requests must be filed in court. Until the judge approves a new amount, the old order stays in effect. Filing quickly helps avoid overdue support.

What if a Parent Does Not Pay Child Support?

Florida takes unpaid child support seriously. If a parent falls behind, the other parent can request enforcement.

The court may order:

• Wage garnishment
• Suspension of driver’s licenses
• Intercepting tax refunds
• Liens on property
• Contempt of court proceedings

These consequences can be stressful and costly. It is always better for a parent who is struggling to pay to seek a modification rather than simply stopping payments.

Support enforcement ensures children receive the financial help they need.

Does Child Support Include Health Insurance?

Yes. Florida requires parents to provide health insurance for their child if it is reasonable and available. Insurance premiums paid for the child are factored into the support calculation.

If insurance is not available through work, one parent may be ordered to purchase it privately. Uninsured medical expenses, including co-pays and prescriptions, are usually split between parents based on income.

How Long Does Child Support Last in Florida?

In most cases, child support ends when a child turns 18. However, support may continue until age 19 if the child is still in high school and expected to graduate. Support can also last longer for children with special needs.

Parents cannot choose to stop paying early. Only the court can end or change an order.

What Documents Do I Need for a Child Support Case?

To prepare a strong case, parents should gather the following documents:

• Pay stubs and tax returns
• Health insurance costs
• Child care expenses
• Parenting time records
• Proof of other children supported

Having organized documents makes the process smoother and helps ensure an accurate calculation.

Clear records help the court understand your financial situation.

Contact Our Orlando Child Support Lawyers Today for a Free Consultation

Child support issues can be confusing, emotional, and stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. The attorneys at McMichen, Cinami & Demps are here to answer your questions, protect your rights, and guide you through the Florida child support process. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Orlando child support attorney.