Fresno Child Support Lawyers

Experienced Child Support Attorneys Serving Fresno County, CA

The divorce settlement process often involves challenging issues, and one of the most significant concerns is how the parents will navigate raising their children. The resolution of child support plays a major role in both the settlement and the well-being of the children and their parents.

Contact the Fresno child support lawyers at Arnold Law Group, APC, by calling (559) 900-1263 or by using our online contact form to schedule an initial consultation.

What is Child Support?

The law defines child support as ongoing financial payments that cover a child’s living and medical costs. Both parents must provide financial support for their children. A court may order one or both parents to make regular payments to the custodial guardian to cover necessary expenses.

What Are the Laws Regarding Child Support? 

In California, child support law sets the legal obligations for non-custodial parents to provide financial support for their children. Although these laws apply statewide, enforcement and administrative issues can become more complex if parents or children relocate to different jurisdictions.

Most child support payments are due monthly until the child turns 18 or becomes independent. If a child cannot support themselves due to a disability, the child support order can continue after the age of 18.

Courts often issue child support orders as part of a broader divorce settlement. Case details, such as custody or visitation agreements, can affect these orders. However, child support obligations remain enforceable regardless of compliance with visitation or custody agreements. For example, parents must continue payments even if visitation is denied, or they risk legal penalties.

How to Obtain a Child Support Order

Requesting child support generally begins with filing a petition with the court, especially if you are already involved in a family law matter like divorce or custody. If there is no existing case, our office can help file the proper petition and make sure it starts in the right jurisdiction. Either the custodial or non-custodial parent can request a child support order.

Each parent must provide thorough information on income, expenses, tax liabilities, and other relevant financial details so the court can calculate support amounts. This information forms the basis for the court’s monthly payment estimate, which may change depending on your circumstances.

In Fresno County, families file most family law cases, including child support, at the main courthouse at 1130 O Street. Filing locally helps ensure compliance with county-specific rules and procedures. Many families in Fresno work with the Fresno County Department of Child Support Services for guidance and questions. Local court staff can help make sure documents meet California’s requirements while following Fresno County steps for documentation.

Call our experienced Fresno child support attorneys for help. We’re available at (559) 900-1263.

How Long Do Child Support Orders Last?

Parents must pay child support until their children turn 18. Some exceptions apply. If a child is legally emancipated, gets married, or joins the military, support obligations end. If a child is still enrolled in high school and not self-supporting at age 18, support can continue until the child’s 19th birthday or until they graduate, whichever comes first. Parents must also support disabled children of any age who cannot support themselves.

How Is Child Support Calculated in California?

Parents may agree on a child support amount, but if they cannot reach an agreement, the court will set the amount based on state guidelines.

California guidelines apply to all parental separation cases, whether married or not. These rules help ensure payments provide the custodial parent with the resources needed to raise a child and that the amount is fair for both sides.

The court's determination follows guideline formulas that include factors such as:

• Number of children
• Each parent's monthly net disposable income
• Each parent’s paycheck deductions, such as health insurance, mandatory retirement, and more.
• Each parent’s tax liability
• Percentage of time the child spends with each parent
• Any special health costs for the child
• All other relevant costs

Each case has unique aspects. Contact our office for an in-depth explanation and assessment of your situation.

What Can I Spend Child Support On?

Parents often want to know what expenses child support covers. While laws provide flexibility, the funds can pay for much more than just basic necessities. The specific coverage in your case depends on your child support order and your family's needs.

When reviewing support orders, Fresno courts consider region-specific expenses, such as childcare options, after-school programs, or transportation challenges faced by families in Central California. The court will consider your child’s unique needs in Fresno, including options for healthcare or education that may require more support.

Common expenses covered by child support may include:

• Basic necessities (food, clothing, shelter, rent, etc.)
• Daycare or childcare assistance
• Health insurance and medical care
• Out-of-pocket medical expenses such as co-pays, deductibles, etc.
• Transportation and travel costs
• Extracurricular activities, including entertainment, outings, and trips to the movies
• Educational or special needs costs, such as tuition, lunch money, or tutoring

How to Calculate Child Support if You Are Self-Employed

For self-employed parents, calculating child support can feel more complex. Financial records may fluctuate from month to month, adding layers to the process.

Self-employed parents in Fresno need organized records, including tax returns, income statements, and business expenses. Local accountants or consultants may help parents document their business income. Parents who own businesses in the Central Valley should keep up-to-date records, as the court may require evidence unique to their type of work.

Self-employed parents and their child support lawyer should calculate these types of expenses:

• Office expenses
• Home office costs
• Advertising expenses
• Wages

A tax return often reflects deductions that parents may not consider income at first. When both parents provide thorough, accurate information, the child support order is more likely to be correct and avoid disputes down the road.

What About Child Support for Special Needs Children?

Child support usually ends when a child turns 18, but young adults with disabilities or special needs may require support longer, sometimes indefinitely. Their needs often demand increased support for medical costs, therapy, or other required services. Adaptive equipment or home modifications may also be covered by child support funds for children with long-term needs.

Many families in Fresno rely on local therapists or education specialists for additional needs. Documenting these expenses from local providers can help courts determine what level of financial support is necessary. Fresno judges may look for documentation from community resources or regional centers when making a support decision for children with disabilities or special needs.

California Family Code §3910 states that both parents share equal responsibility to support a child who, due to physical or mental incapacity, cannot earn a living or has insufficient means—no matter the child’s age.

The formula for adult child support generally matches the method for minor children. If the adult child earns income or owns assets, the court may reduce child support as appropriate.

Modifying a Court Order

Circumstances change over time, and the California court system allows parents to seek a modification of their original child support order. We help assess if a modification is an option for your situation and guide you through the legal steps that follow.

Fresno parents may need modifications after major changes—such as job loss in local industries or if a child changes schools within Fresno Unified School District. These factors may influence the court’s decision. Usually, you must file a request in Fresno County Superior Court with clear evidence of a major life change. Fresno County rules may require certain paperwork, and our team supports clients by making sure the process stays on track.

Do not take informal action or change payments on your own. Even when both parties agree on a change, a court order must be in place before you alter support payments. Avoid the risk of non-compliance by moving forward only with formal approval.

Common situations that may require a child support modification include:

• Loss or reduction of employment income
• Increase in ex-spouse’s employment or income
• Ex-spouse remarries
• Adverse medical condition of the child

We have a favorable record of obtaining positive results in modification cases. While we cannot guarantee an outcome, our focus remains on process, communication, and diligent legal representation.

Don’t hesitate to contact our Fresno child support attorneys at (559) 900-1263. We’ll schedule an initial consultation so we can learn more about your circumstances.

What Happens if a Parent Refuses to Pay Child Support?

No parent wants their child to go without financial support. If a non-custodial parent refuses to pay court-ordered support, the law provides several remedies. Prompt legal action can help pursue the funds your child needs.

The Fresno County Department of Child Support Services enforces support orders throughout the region. Local authorities, sometimes working with state agencies, may garnish wages, place liens, or seize bank accounts to recover unpaid support. Fresno judges also have authority to apply local sanctions as allowed under California law. Because enforcement actions can impact jobs, licenses, or credit, timely response to unpaid support is crucial.

These are common enforcement methods for overdue support payments:

• Wage garnishment
• Seizure of personal property or bank accounts
• Real estate liens
• Redirection of tax refunds

Failure to pay child support may also result in consequences such as:

• Loss or suspension of driver’s license
• Tax refund interception at the state or federal level
• Suspension of professional license
• Frozen bank accounts
• Interest added to past-due payments
• Imprisonment in serious cases

Navigating the Fresno County Child Support Process

Child support cases in Fresno follow procedures set by the local Superior Court and agencies serving the community. Parents typically interact with the court at various points, while receiving communication from the Fresno County Department of Child Support Services as the case progresses. Understanding local rules and schedules helps families avoid holdups and move through the process smoothly.

To begin, either parent can apply for support through the Department of Child Support Services or at the family law courthouse on O Street. The Fresno process requires accurate financial disclosure early so the court can determine a fair support amount. While the court follows statewide guidelines, local procedures may affect how documents are processed or how soon hearings are held.

After filing, parties may participate in meetings with support officers to resolve disputes before going before the judge. Fresno’s court schedule, interpreter resources, and self-help programs may influence hearing dates and how you prepare. Throughout, our team stays in touch with clients to keep the process clear, communicating local deadlines and what you should expect next.

Working with Arnold Law Group, APC: What to Expect

Choosing Arnold Law Group, APC brings you a true legal partner who values transparency and communication. We begin with a thorough consultation, listening closely to your goals and outlining what to expect from Fresno’s court system and Department of Child Support Services. We help gather documents and financial records the court will require, making sure your case starts strong.

At every stage, our team keeps you informed about important local requirements and deadlines. We create strategies reflecting your family's unique needs rather than relying on methods designed for other cities. With more than 30 years of combined experience and a strong record helping clients throughout Fresno, our child support attorneys always advocate with integrity and clear communication.

As members of the Fresno community, we value both legal skill and the practical realities facing local families. Our approach blends thorough case preparation with guidance tailored to Central Valley life, so you stay supported through every decision and step along the way.

What Is a “Summons and Complaint”?

A Summons and Complaint (S&C) is a notice that a custodial parent requests support. If the recipient does not respond within 30 days and does not reach an agreement, the court may order support as listed in the S&C by default.

Parents who want their case formally reviewed in court should complete the required paperwork and file an “Answer” within the 30-day window for review by a judge.

Preparing for Your Child Support Hearing

The hearing process is straightforward. The Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) or non-custodial parent sets the court date. If DCSS initiates, both parents receive official paperwork stating when and why to appear. If the non-custodial parent requests a hearing, all parties must receive a copy at least 30 days in advance, or the matter will not proceed.

Parents attending a hearing at Fresno County Family Court should check whether remote appearances are allowed or required, as local practices may shift. The court may schedule pre-hearing meetings, or require both parents to meet with a support officer before seeing a judge. Collecting all required financial records before your hearing helps keep your case on track, especially if your hearing occurs at the courthouse or another Fresno County location.

Generally, parents meet with someone from DCSS before the hearing. This meeting gives both sides a chance to resolve the issue outside the courtroom. However, everyone maintains the right for a judge to review the case if a resolution is not reached.

Bring these documents to your court hearing:

• Tax returns for the past two years
• Paycheck stubs from the last three pay periods
• Proof of unemployment, disability, or other benefits
• Health insurance premium receipts
• Proof of child visitation or timeshare
• Mortgage and property tax statements, where applicable
• Any loan applications from the last two years
• Completed Income and Expense Declaration (FL-150)
• Other documents relevant to your case

Going to court for child support can feel overwhelming. If the outcome is not what you hoped for, a child support lawyer can help you understand and handle the new order moving forward.

Understanding the Impact of Child Support on Your Family

Child support is not just a financial obligation; it directly impacts your child’s well-being and family stability. Understanding its influence on family life can help you make decisions with your child’s future in mind.

Key benefits of receiving regular child support include:

• Emotional well-being: Timely support payments reduce financial pressure so parents can focus on their child’s emotional needs.
• Educational opportunities: Ongoing support helps your child access strong educational resources and participate in important activities.
• Health and nutrition: Sufficient support helps families afford nutritious food and reliable healthcare options.
• Stability and security: When support is reliable, children feel more stable and confident during family changes.

Families across Fresno County have access to a wide range of schools and resources. We stay mindful of local community needs and tailor our guidance to your reality and your child’s future, so you have the support you need both now and as your family evolves.

At Arnold Law Group, APC, our child support lawyers are here to walk you through the process, always keeping your child’s well-being top of mind. Join us in building a path to a brighter future for your family.

Why Choose Our Fresno Child Support Lawyers?

At Arnold Law Group, APC, we offer caring representation paired with:

• 30+ years combined experience supporting families
• Attentive legal counsel that listens to your needs and goals
• Personalized legal strategies for your situation
• The trust of thousands of clients throughout Fresno

Choosing the right child support lawyer in Fresno is important. You want an attorney who advocates for your best interests and those of your children. That's who you’ll find with Arnold Law Group, APC. Whether you and the other parent agree or not, you’ll benefit from strong advocacy to help protect your rights and your child’s future in every stage of the process.

Our longstanding relationship with the Fresno community gives us valuable insight into the local family court system and the realities families encounter throughout the region. Our involvement with community programs and events extends that support beyond the legal system. With this local perspective, we take a practical approach rooted in the values and decisions that guide families every day. We offer clear communication every step, so you always feel informed as we move through your child support case together.

Call today at (559) 900-1263 or contact us online to set up your initial case meeting with our Fresno child support lawyers.