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Serving Northampton, Lehigh & Monroe Counties
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Lehigh Valley Child Support Lawyers

Updated · Pennsylvania lawReviewed by James Madsen, Esq. ·
Judge’s gavel resting on U.S. currency

Lehigh Valley Child Support Lawyers

Family Law Office Located in Easton, Pennsylvania and serving Lehigh & Northampton County

Choosing the Right Child Support Lawyers in Easton, Pennsylvania doesn't have to be hard.

At our law office in Easton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Lehigh Valley in Northampton County, our dedicated Child Custody Attorneys and Child Support Lawyers are committed to providing comprehensive support for all Pennsylvania child support cases. We handle everything from initial filings to appeals in both Lehigh County Domestic Relations and Northampton County Domestic Relations.

We pride ourselves on our close collaboration with clients, meticulously reviewing income details to pursue a supported result consistent with the facts and law in child support cases across Easton, Allentown, and Bethlehem.

In Pennsylvania, a custodial parent is entitled to child support until the child graduates from school or reaches the age of 18, whichever is later. In cases where the child has a serious mental or physical condition, the non-custodial parent may be required to provide support for an extended period. The support amount in a Pennsylvania child support case is determined based on the monthly earning capacity or net income (after taxes) of both parents.

Child Support is typically awarded by the court to the custodial parent, regardless of whether they are the biological parent of the child. While typically only biological parents are liable for Child Support, in certain rare circumstances, individuals who have previously acted or attempted to act in a parental role may also be held responsible for Child Support.

Reach out to our Child Support Lawyers in Easton, Pennsylvania today for a comprehensive review of your Pennsylvania child support case. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of child support law.

Judge’s gavel resting on a law book

How is Income Determined for Purposes of Child Support?

Pennsylvania includes all of the following as income:

• Wages

• Salaries

• Overtime pay

• Commissions

• Bonuses

• Interest

• Rental income

• Retirement income

• Social Security retirement or disability payments

• Workers' compensation

• Unemployment compensation

• Income from an interest in a business

• Entitlements to lump sum awards such as lottery winnings

Stages in a Pennsylvania Child Support Case

Northampton and Lehigh Counties use different post-conference procedures.

1. Initial filing or modification petition
A child-support case begins by filing the appropriate complaint or modification petition through Domestic Relations. Under Pa. R. Civ. P. 1910.17, an order generally takes effect from the filing date unless the order specifies otherwise, subject to the rule’s exceptions.
2. Support conference
A conference officer reviews financial information, performs the guideline calculation, and explores agreement. If the parties agree, the officer prepares an agreed order for court approval. If they do not agree, an interim order enters and the next step depends on the county’s certified procedure.
3. Northampton County — Rule 1910.11
Northampton uses the de novo track. A party seeking further review must file the written demand described in the interim order within 20 days after receipt or mailing, whichever occurs first. A timely demand leads to a fresh evidentiary hearing before the court. The interim order remains in effect unless the court directs otherwise.
4. Lehigh County — Rule 1910.12
After an attended conference ends without agreement, Lehigh ordinarily enters an interim order and automatically schedules a record hearing before an attorney hearing officer. After the report and corresponding interim order, precise written exceptions must be filed within 20 days under Rule 1910.12’s receipt-or-mailing provisions, whichever occurs first. Follow the instructions in each notice; do not assume the date printed on one document controls. Exceptions are argued to the court on the hearing record.
5. Final order and appeal
In Northampton, the conference-stage interim order becomes final if no timely demand is filed. In Lehigh, the post-hearing interim order becomes final if no timely exceptions are filed. Appeals from a final support order follow separate appellate rules and deadlines. Review the individual order and notice immediately.

For the complete distinction, read Pennsylvania Support Conferences, Interim Orders, and “De Novo” Hearings.

Top Ten (10) Things to Know About Child Support In Pennsylvania

  1. Child Support Responsibility: In Pennsylvania, parents are legally responsible for the financial support of their children.
  2. Types of Support: Child support in Pennsylvania covers not just basic needs, but also the mental, emotional, and physical welfare of the children.
  3. Support Duration: Child support is typically paid until the child’s 18th birthday. However, if the child has a disability, the court may order the payments to continue.
  4. Income Definition: Income for child support purposes can include wages, in-kind payments, royalties, dividends, annuities, retirement incomes, disability and workers’ compensation benefits, and court or insurance settlements.
  5. Support Calculation: The amount of child support is based on both parents’ respective net incomes and the number of children they have.
  6. Custody and Support: Who receives support and who pays support is determined by their child custody arrangement.
  7. Support Modification: Child support can be modified over time. Changes in a parent’s ability to pay or a child’s needs can warrant modifications.
  8. Enforcement Measures: Unpaid child support may be subject to enforcement measures. Delinquent payments can be intercepted from the state’s income tax or lottery winnings.
  9. Appealing Decisions: After a judge makes a final decision, you have 30 days to appeal the decision to a higher court.
  10. Legal Assistance: Navigating child support laws can be complex. Legal professionals can provide guidance and ensure computations are done right.
Infographic explaining child-support basics in Northampton and Lehigh Counties

What Should I Bring to a Child Support Conference?

Bring the following items to your support conference:

  • Paystubs (six months if possible)
  • Most Recent Tax Return (plus all schedules)
  • Proof of Childcare Expenses (if applicable)
  • Proof of Student Loan Expenses
  • Proof of Extraordinary Medical Expenses
  • Medical Form (if applicable)
  • Unemployment Documentation (if applicable)
  • Driver’s License
  • Child’s Health Insurance Card (if applicable)

Child Support FAQs

Common questions regarding child support in Northampton & Lehigh County:

How does 50/50 Custody Affect Support?
Equal shared physical custody does not mean that there will be no support obligation. Even if custody of the children is shared equally, the parent that earns more may have some support obligation to the other parent.
I have my child almost as much as the other parent, how will that affect support?
The paying party having more than 40% of overnight custody with the child is a basis for lowering the support obligation. The paying party having less than 30% of overnight custody of the child may be a basis for an increase of the support obligation.
The other parent never sees the child, can I ask for more support?
The paying party having more than 40% of overnight custody with the child is a basis for lowering the support obligation. The paying party having less than 30% of overnight custody of the child may be a basis for an increase of the support obligation.
If I have a Child Support Contempt Hearing What Should I Do?
If you do not pay as required, you can go to jail. If you are summoned to court for failing to pay, the following can help reduce your chance of going to jail: 1. Bring as much money as possible to court. 2. Gather proof of all of your attempts to find work. (copies of job applications etc.). 3. Obtain medical evidence of any disability that prevents you from working. 4. File a modification (if warranted by a change in circumstances). 5. Obtain employment.
How is child support calculated in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, child support is calculated based on the statewide guidelines established by the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure. These guidelines consider several factors, including the income of both parents, the number of children, and additional expenses related to the children's needs (such as healthcare, education, and childcare). Our law firm can help you understand how these guidelines apply to your specific situation and estimate the amount of support that may be ordered.
What if my financial situation changes after child support is ordered?
If you experience a significant change in your financial circumstances, such as a job loss or a substantial decrease in income, you may be eligible to request a modification of your child support order. It's important to file a petition for modification with the court as soon as possible, as changes are not retroactive to the date of your financial change but to the date you file the petition. Our attorneys can assist you in navigating the modification process in Northampton County and surrounding areas.
Can child support cover expenses like extracurricular activities and medical bills?
Yes, child support in Pennsylvania can cover a wide range of children's expenses, including healthcare costs, educational fees, and extracurricular activities. The basic child support order aims to cover the child's basic living expenses, but parents can agree or the court may order additional amounts for other significant expenses. Our firm can help ensure that your child support agreement comprehensively covers all necessary aspects of your child's upbringing.
What happens if my ex-partner stops paying child support?
If your ex-partner fails to pay child support, there are several enforcement options available in Pennsylvania. These can include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, and even legal penalties like fines or jail time. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the process of enforcing a child support order within Lehigh, Northampton, and Monroe counties, ensuring that your children's financial needs are met.
How long does child support continue in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, child support typically continues until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later. However, support may extend beyond this age under certain circumstances, such as if the child has special needs. Our legal team can provide specific advice based on your situation and help you understand the duration and scope of your child support obligations.

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Our Child Support Attorneys handle Child Support Cases in Easton, Allentown & Bethlehem

About This Information

This page addresses Pennsylvania law and common practice in Northampton and Lehigh Counties. Court procedures, deadlines, and available remedies can change and may depend on the facts, the assigned judge, and the governing order. The linked official sources should be checked for later amendments, and advice should be based on the specific matter.

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