Child Support

Providing for the Support of Children

Illinois law recognizes a duty for both parents to contribute to the support of their child. In divorce and paternity proceedings, the judge will set a child support obligation for the non-custodial parent, even if the other parent has enough income to support the child.

At the Steele Law Firm in Chicago, Illinois, we represent parents on all issues related to child support. Contact us to schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled family law attorney.

Working Within Illinois Guidelines

Illinois requires a non-custodial parent to pay child support in accordance with the state's guidelines, which are based on the net income of the parent, as follows:

Number of Children	1	2	3	4	5	6+
Amount of Supporting Parent's Net Income	20%	28%	32%	40%	45%	50%

Since the key issue in determining the amount of child support a parent owes is net income, figuring out the amount of that income can be a key issue during the divorce process.

If a parent owns a business, investments or rental property, income from those properties must be included. If the parent has multiple jobs and/or irregular income, the court needs to make a determination based on evidence presented by the parties.

Mandatory deductions from income, like taxes and union dues, are not included in the net income total, but voluntary deductions, like 401(k) plans, are.

Addressing Ongoing Support Issues

Once a child support obligation has been established, it continues until the child is emancipated. This is normally when the child turns 18, but it can be later if the child is still in high school at that age or has special needs.

Child support is an entirely separate issue from visitation, so if you owe child support, you have to keep paying it even if your visitation rights are taken away, legally or illegally.

Child support can be modified if circumstances change. It is best to contact a lawyer before attempting any modification of the child support obligation.