When a California couple divorces, physical custody could be assigned to one parent or shared between both parents. In the past, it was more common for mothers to be assigned physical custody, but this has changed quite a bit in more recent years. However, perspectives on child support have not necessarily progressed to the same extent that custody rights have. A recent article explored the issue, emphasizing the challenges of working mothers in terms of salaries and responsibilities.
The article in question focused particularly on a high-profile situation in which the father of a baby with Bristol Palin is seeking monthly child support and joint custody. Palin’s family has suggested that the request for child support is inappropriate. A single dad who has gained fame through a video tutorial about tips for fathers needing to help daughters with their hair also weighed in on the topic of fathers asking for child support, noting that believes the situations in which men ask for child support should be limited.
The law may be the most important factor in determining child support matters, and the court system typically has the final say in deciding amounts. Even with the use of online calculation tools, parents may only arrive at an estimate of the amount to which they might be entitled or that they may be required to pay. A judge may weigh circumstances such as the employment of each party, the lifestyle to which a child has been accustomed prior to the divorce, and current resources. If a custodial parent receives public assistance, there is a requirement in many states to seek child support from the other parent.
A parent might choose to decline child support to which they are entitled if their circumstances are such that the support is not needed. However, a later change in finances might create a different outlook, in which case a parent might want to have the assistance of an attorney in obtaining an order.