Child Support
Child support calculations and enforcement require careful application of Illinois and Indiana law. The firm helps ensure support obligations are calculated accurately and fairly.
Illinois: Old Percentage Model vs Income Shares
Prior to July 2017, Illinois used a percentage model based on the paying parent’s income and the number of children. Illinois then adopted the income shares model, which calculates support using the combined net incomes of both parents.
How the Income Shares Model Works
Under the income shares model, each parent’s net income is determined, combined to find the total, and then allocated by percentage using the income shares chart to determine each parent’s obligation. This method is more complex than the prior model, so accurate inputs matter.
Indiana Differences
Indiana has used a similar income shares approach for many years. One important difference is that Indiana’s age of emancipation is 19, while Illinois’ age of emancipation is generally 18.
Common Issues We Handle
- Support calculation guidance
- Ensuring correct net income inputs
- Understanding support charts and percentages
- Coordination of matters across Illinois and Indiana
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Illinois change the child support model?
Is child support always the same amount?
Does Indiana handle support differently than Illinois?
Request a Consultation
Confidential consultations. Submitting a request does not create an attorney-client relationship.