Child Support FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Venice, Florida

How do I start a child support case Manatee County or Sarasota County if we were never married?

You’ll need to establish paternity first, with the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court to begin the process officially. Once paternity is established, you can file a Motion for Temporary Child Support and schedule it for a hearing in front of the assigned Magistrate or Child Support Hearing Officer.

How is child support calculated in Florida?

Florida uses a child support formula based on both parents’ net incomes, number of overnights with the child, and additional expenses like daycare, health and dental insurance for the child, and uncovered medical, dental, vision and prescription expenses for the child.

Can I change my child support amount later?

Yes, but only if there’s a significant, permanent, and involuntary change in income, parenting time, or the child’s financial needs.

What if the other parent refuses to pay child support?

You can contact the Florida Department of Revenue for enforcement or take the issue to court, where consequences may eventually include wage garnishment or license suspension.

What counts as income for child support in Florida?

Income includes wages, bonuses, self-employment income, disability benefits, rental income, and even regular financial gifts—minus certain allowable deductions for taxes and health insurance.

Will child support cover medical or daycare expenses?

Yes, those costs are considered and can be added to the monthly support amount, often divided based on each parent’s income share.

What if the other parent hides income or is unemployed on purpose?

The court can assign “imputed income” based on earning potential to prevent manipulation of child support obligations.

Do we have to go to court, or can we agree on an amount ourselves?

You can agree privately, but the court must approve it to ensure it follows state child support guidelines and also protects the child’s best interests.

Can I get child support back-pay from before I filed my case?

Yes, Florida law allows for retroactive support going back up to 24 months before your filing date, depending on your circumstances.

Is it worth hiring a Florida child support lawyer for a child support case?

Yes, a lawyer can help ensure accurate calculations, protect your rights, and handle complex legal procedures that could affect your financial future.

Divorce Child Support Attorneys in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Venice, FloridaIf you’re dealing with child support issues in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Anna Maria Island, Sarasota, Siesta Key, Manasota Key, or Venice, Florida, you’re likely feeling stressed, uncertain, and under pressure to protect both your rights and your child’s well-being. These aren’t just legal problems—they’re deeply personal ones that affect your day-to-day life. At the Law Offices of Matthew Z. Martell, P.A., our divorce lawyer understand what you’re up against. With years of experience handling child support cases in divorces throughout Manatee County and Sarasota County, we approach every case with purpose and focus. Whether you’re a parent trying to secure the financial support your child needs, or you’re facing a support obligation that feels unfair or unmanageable, we’re here to stand with you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. You don’t have to carry the weight of this alone. To speak directly with an trusted and experienced Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Venice, Florida divorce child support attorney near you about your situation, contact the Law Offices of Matthew Z. Martell, P.A. by calling (941) 556-7020 or contacting us online to see if you qualify for our 15 minute free initial phone consultation.