Encino Child Support Attorney Standing With California Families

Last updated on October 24, 2025

A divorce can cause a parent to struggle financially, especially for parents who rely heavily on their spouse to pay for bills. To help ensure parents continue to provide for their children’s needs, parents can seek child support.

At Cohen Family Law Group, APC, we represent Encino parents to help them obtain the child support they need. We understand how difficult it is for parents to juggle work, child care and legal issues, so we try to resolve any issues as seamlessly as possible.

Calculating Child Support In California

California courts consider several factors when calculating child support. These factors include the number of children, the amount of time parents spend with their children and each parent’s monthly income, plus any special needs the children may have.

Common Child Support Disputes

Even if parents are broadly in agreement about the terms of a child support arrangement, disputes can arise due to unrealistic expectations or the failure to pay. Our attorneys at Cohen Family Law Group, APC, can help parents settle these issues and find an arrangement that works for everyone.

Child Support Modification Options For San Fernando Valley Families

A child support modification and ease some of the conflicts parents might be experiencing with their child’s other parent. Parents could make changes if a parent was suddenly laid off, found a new job or experienced a change in income. We can help you discuss your modification options.

Child Support Implications For Married And Unmarried Couples

California law always requires parents to assume financial responsibility for their children, regardless of whether the parents are married. Once paternity is established, an unmarried parent can be ordered to pay support by the court to their child’s custodial parent.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support In California

Below, we have addressed some of the most frequently asked questions that we encounter during our sessions.

How is child support calculated in California if one parent is self-employed?

When one parent is self-employed, calculating child support in California becomes more complicated. Unlike traditional employees with W-2 income, self-employed individuals have variable earnings and deductible business expenses that can make income verification challenging.

Courts look beyond just reported income to determine a fair amount. They consider:

• Gross income from self-employment, after subtracting legitimate business expenses.
• Earnings history, including prior tax returns and financial statements.
• Lifestyle indicators, such as assets, property or spending habits, to detect underreported income.

Because income can fluctuate, judges may average income over several years or impute income if they believe a parent is underreporting earnings. We can help present accurate financial documentation and make sure that calculations are fair and reflect your true financial situation.

What steps should I take if the other parent refuses to pay child support?

If the other parent refuses to pay court-ordered child support, California law provides several enforcement options. Before taking legal action, it is best to document missed payments and contact your local child support agency for guidance.

Enforcement methods can include:

• Wage garnishment, where payments are deducted directly from the parent’s paycheck.
• Interception of tax refunds or lottery winnings to recover owed support.
• Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses until the debt is paid.
• Contempt of court actions, which can result in fines or jail time for noncompliance.

These measures are designed to hold parents accountable and help ensure the child’s financial needs are protected. Working with a child support lawyer helps ensure that enforcement is done efficiently and legally, without unnecessary delays or complications.

Can child support orders in California be enforced outside state lines?

Yes, California child support orders can be enforced even if one parent moves out of state. The Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) enables states to cooperate and enforce support obligations across state lines.

This means a parent who relocates cannot avoid payment simply by leaving California. The receiving parent can request assistance from California’s Department of Child Support Services (DCSS), which will coordinate with the other state’s enforcement agency to collect payments.

Navigating interstate enforcement can involve complex paperwork and jurisdictional questions, so having a knowledgeable California family law attorney can make the process smoother and more effective.

How does shared custody affect California child support payments?

In cases of shared custody, California uses a specific formula to determine child support, which accounts for both parents’ incomes and the amount of time each parent spends with the child. Generally, the more time a parent spends caring for the child, the less child support they may be required to pay.

Courts consider several key factors, including:

• Each parent’s net disposable income
• Percentage of custody or visitation time
• Health insurance, child care and educational expenses

Even in shared custody arrangements, one parent may still be required to pay child support if there is a significant income disparity. We can help ensure that calculations accurately reflect your custody arrangement and financial circumstances, protecting your child’s best interests.

Are there any tax implications for receiving or paying child support?

Under federal and California law, child support payments are not taxable income for the parent receiving them, and they are not tax-deductible for the parent making the payments. However, other financial aspects of parenting after separation, such as claiming a child as a dependent or sharing tax credits, can have tax consequences. It is important to understand:

• Only one parent may claim a child as a dependent in a given tax year.
• The IRS awards the deduction to the custodial parent unless otherwise stated in a court order.
• Improper filing can lead to penalties or IRS disputes.

Consulting a family law attorney and a tax professional can help you understand your rights, avoid costly mistakes and help ensure compliance with tax laws.

Seek Legal Representation To Resolve Child Support Issues

When you work with Cohen Family Law Group, APC, you get support from one of the best family law firms in California. To get started with a confidential consultation, call us today at 818-901-8900 or send us an email.