In Missouri, the court may take action when child custody or support becomes an issue. These circumstances may present the need for a formal hearing to settle the parents’ dispute. The following are questions that Wegmann Law Firm in Jefferson County MO can answer about custody and support.
When Does the Court Determine Child Custody and Support Assignments?
The court determines child custody when a divorce trial was necessary. In most cases, the child custody assignment is assigned in a separate hearing than the divorce. The judge may require these actions when the parents cannot reach an agreement or if there is a serious risk to the child.
When Can the Non-Custodial Parent Seek Custody and Why?
The non-custodial parent can file a new petition to acquire custody after one year. However, if the child is at risk, the court may allow a hearing at an earlier time. Typically, these petitions are filed when the custodial parent is involved in risky behaviors or activities that pose a threat to the child. Among these probabilities are drug or alcohol addiction and other criminal activities.
What Factors Define the Total Child Support Payment?
The income of both parents is reviewed first. All medical expenses for the child are reviewed. The lifestyle achieved during the marriage is also a considering factor. The court defines these payments if the parents cannot reach their own agreement. All child support payments are monitored according to the terms of the court order.
Under What Circumstances are Child Support Payments Paid to the Court?
If the parents cannot remain civil, the court may require the payments to be submitted through legal channels. If either spouse was the victim of domestic violence, these actions are taken to ensure that the individual isn’t placed at risk. All payments must be received according to the schedule set up by the court.
In Missouri, divorcing couples have the right to create their own agreement about custody and child support. However, if circumstances prevent a civil agreement, a judge establishes this decision for them. Parents who need help with these assignments contact the Wegmann Law Firm in Jefferson County MO or Click Here for further details.
