DIVORCE: CAN YOU WAIVE CHILD SUPPORT?
Transcript
Here’s a question I get a lot: Can you waive child support in your divorce?
Welcome, everybody! I’m A.J. Grossman, a divorce lawyer, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, and dispute resolution specialist with Leap Frog Divorce.
Can You Waive Child Support in Florida?
Generally, you cannot simply agree to waive child support in a Florida divorce when doing so would be contrary to your child’s best interests or the applicable child support requirements.
Many people mistakenly believe they can agree that neither parent will pay child support. However, child support is intended to provide for the child’s needs, and judges review child support arrangements to ensure they comply with Florida law.
Parents can agree on many aspects of their divorce, but their agreement regarding child support must still meet the court’s requirements.
Can a Court Deviate From Florida’s Child Support Guidelines?
There may be situations where one parent pays for significant expenses for a child that affect how child support should be calculated.
For example, parents may have an arrangement in which one parent covers certain expenses directly. Depending on the circumstances, they may ask the court to approve a deviation from the Florida child support guidelines.
However, a deviation is not automatic. The court must determine whether the proposed arrangement is legally justified and appropriate under the circumstances.
Make Sure Your Divorce Includes a Child Support Calculation
If you have children and are getting divorced in Florida, make sure your proposed settlement addresses child support and includes the necessary calculations.
The judge needs to be able to review the proposed arrangement and determine whether it meets the applicable legal requirements. Addressing child support correctly can help avoid delays in finalizing your divorce.
Conclusion: Understanding Child Support in Florida
I hope you found this video helpful!
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I’m A.J. Grossman, divorce lawyer with Leap Frog Divorce.
Have a wonderful day, and be well!
