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How Much is the Average Child Support in St. Louis, Missouri?

Unsure how much the average child support in St. Louis, Missouri? If you are involved in a child custody case, these questions are understandable. Child support issues can be complex, especially in an already-contentious divorce.

The good news is that the right legal counsel could help you secure a fair outcome in your case. While the child support process begins with a formula, judges have the right to adjust the final award based on important factors. A child support attorney could help you make the best case possible for a fair child support award.

You do not have to face disputes over child support alone. When you work with an attorney, you have an advocate that could ensure you understand every aspect of your child support case. Reach out to the J. Rench Law Firm, LLC as soon as possible for your initial consultation.

The Average Child Support in St. Louis

It is difficult to accurately determine the average child support award in St. Louis. This information is not collected in a central place, making it difficult to determine the amount with accuracy. However, according to CustodyXchange, the average monthly child support payment in Missouri in 2019 was 556. That works out to $6,672 in child support annually per child.

While the average amount of child support is interesting, it is important to remember that the facts in your case are what will determine what you might owe. Many factors can impact a child support award, which is initially based upon a formula calculation. Understanding how those process works is more valuable in your case than the average amount of support awarded each year.

Calculating Child Support in St. Louis

The process of calculating your child support obligation begins with the use of a formula. This formula takes into account numerous factors and provides a recommended amount of child support. Some of the factors that this formula takes into account include:

  • The number of children you have
  • The income of each parent
  • How custody is divided between each parent
  • Prior child support orders
  • The cost of childcare each parent pays
  • The cost of health insurance each parent pays

It is important to remember that this formula is a recommendation. The judge tasked with overseeing a child support case in St. Louis is not obligated to follow these guidelines. Some judges only use these recommendations as a starting point before making their own determination. However, a judge is constrained by one factor: the best interest of the child. A judge must always make

Child Support can be Modified

Even if you disagree with the child support decision in your case, it is worth noting this outcome is not final. Whether you are receiving child support payments or have been ordered to make them, you have an opportunity to ask for a modification of the child support award.

This modification could be for different reasons. You could seek a decrease in your child support obligation if your income decreases on a non-temporary basis. You could also pursue a modification of these terms if your co-parent sees an increase in the ability to pay.

Any modification of the child support obligation must be in the best interest of the child. There must also be a substantial change in circumstances to warrant this change. A court will not modify a child support obligation without a valid reason.

Call the J. Rench Law Firm, LLC For Guidance in St. Louis

Understanding the average child support amount awarded in St. Louis, Missouri might be helpful in understanding what to expect from the process. However, this average amount will not have a direct impact on the child support award in your case.

When it comes to your situation, an attorney could give you the best shot at a positive outcome. Thoroughly preparing your case could help ensure your rights as a parent are protected and your child is provided for. Reach out to the J. Rench Law Firm, LLC as soon as possible for your private consultation.

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