Child Support Effectively Advocating for You with Compassion and Integrity

Child Support Lawyer in Sarasota

The calculation and determination of child support, if any, is necessary in every divorce or separation case involving minor children. Every parent must financially support their child. What is often missed in these cases is that the right to child support belongs to the child. 

The amount of support to be exchanged between parties and the enforcement of that support is often the subject of expensive and time-consuming litigation in Florida. 

At McDermott Law Offices, PLLC, we represent divorcing, separating, or never-married parents in this matter. Our firm seeks to resolve child support disputes outside court through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law. These methods help you avoid the time, expense, and stress of courtroom litigation. 

However, where issues cannot be resolved through these methods, you can rely on the trial experience of Attorney McDermott, who has spent over 20 years fighting for the rights and interests of Florida parents and children. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the legal process with clarity and empathy, ensuring your needs and those of your children are met. We employ a comprehensive approach that examines every aspect of your financial situation to advocate for fair child support arrangements. 

Contact our child support attorney in Sarasota for a consultation by email on our contact form or by phone at (941) 837-5071

Continue Reading Read Less

Paternity & Child Support

Child support is often a vital issue in paternity cases that must be resolved. If paternity is established, the court must order a parent to pay child support according to the guidelines. The father can also seek visitation rights once paternity has been established. Paternity cases can be complex, and working with an experienced family law attorney is essential to protect your rights and interests.

Establishing paternity can involve several legal processes, including DNA testing and court proceedings. This process ensures that both parents contribute to the child's upbringing, reinforcing the child's legal rights. By securing a legal acknowledgment of paternity, it becomes feasible to create a structured child support agreement tailored to the child's unique needs. This confirmation also opens doors for the child to access benefits such as social security or veterans' benefits, if applicable, providing an additional layer of financial security.

Child Support Modifications & Enforcement

Child support orders can be modified if a parent's or child’s circumstances significantly change. This might include a parental job loss, increased income, or a change in custody arrangements. To modify a child support order, either parent can file a request with the court outlining the change in circumstances. If both parents agree on the modification, they can submit a joint petition to modify the order.

If one parent fails to pay child support, enforcing the order through various legal means is possible. As the recipient of child support, you must seek enforcement through a petition to the court. Where delinquency is shown, courts can enforce the support through wage garnishment or interception of tax refunds.

Child support modifications and enforcement ensure that the agreements are fair and reflective of current situations. Parents experiencing significant life changes, such as disability or remarriage, might need to revisit terms to prevent financial strain. Additionally, enforcement mechanisms may include seizing property or suspending licenses to ensure compliance, demonstrating the legal system's commitment to upholding the child's welfare. Consulting with a knowledgeable child support lawyer in Sarasota can streamline these processes, minimizing the impact on the family.

Continue Reading Read Less

    "Helpful and Professional!"

    Very helpful and professional. Returns communication in a very timely manner.

    - Madison M.
    "I'll Be Forever Grateful!"

    I was shown nothing but respect, professionalism, compassion, and integrity... my case was handled with the utmost care and importance.

    - Joseph L.
    "Calm and Considerate"

    Paul was always calm, organized, and helpful during my time of need. The team was also very caring and considerate like it was their own life they were dealing with!

    - Casey E.
    "A Pleasure to Work With"

    Paul was very responsive and understanding of individual situations. Was a pleasure working with him!

    - Heather L.
    "They Actually Care"

    Paul & Louise were amazing!! He was patient with my case, despite all the bumps in my case and understood my situation.

    - David A.
    "Mr. McDermott handled a very difficult situation in my life in the best and most professional way. I feel I was guided and given good advice and provided excellent information."
    - Jay H.
    "Patient and Helpful"

    Paul McDermott is very helpful and professional. He is also patient and provided excellent advice.

    - Former Client
    "Excellent Counsel"

    I strongly recommend using Paul McDermott. Paul always had my best interests in mind when deciding our course of action.

    - William G.

Contact Us Today

We’re Ready to Help You Move Forward

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from McDermott Law Offices, PLLC at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

What Sets Us Apart

  • Compassionately Aggressive
    We understand this can be a difficult process; we care for the person behind the case, while still fighting aggressively for your rights.
  • Responsive and Reachable
    You'll never wonder where your case stands; we'll return your calls and walk you through the process every step of the way.
  • Prioritizing Your Experience
    We have served thousands of clients, providing excellent customer service with the utmost integrity.
  • Serving Clients Since 2001

    Paul McDermott has been effectively advocating for clients like you for over twenty years.