Guidance and representation in matters related to child custody arrangements and visitation rights, focused on the best interests of the child. Support issues can feel stressful, especially when emotions are high or finances are tight. We help you understand your rights and responsibilities and work toward support arrangements that reflect legal obligations and the realities of your family’s day-to-day life.
What are child and spousal support?
Child support is financial support paid to help cover a child’s living expenses. It’s guided by rules and is focused on the child’s needs.
Spousal support may apply after separation depending on factors like income difference, length of the relationship, roles during the relationship, and financial impact of separation.
Support can be agreed to privately, set out in a separation agreement, or determined by a court if needed.
When clients usually reach out
you’re separating and want to set support up properly from the start
your income or your former partner’s income has changed
you’re unsure what amount is fair or required
support hasn’t been paid, or payments are inconsistent
you want to update an existing agreement or order
the other party is requesting support and you need clarity before agreeing
What support arrangements can include
Determining the right amount
We help clarify what information is needed and how support is typically calculated so you’re not negotiating in the dark.
Setting clear payment terms
Frequency, start dates, methods of payment, and how changes are handled—so expectations are clear.
Special or shared expenses
Depending on the situation, certain additional expenses may be addressed (for example, childcare or extracurricular costs).
Review and change clauses
Support is often tied to real life — income changes, job changes, and parenting changes. Clear review terms can prevent future conflict.
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How we help
We focus on practical solutions that protect your financial stability and reduce ongoing conflict.
We can support you with:
explaining likely outcomes and what factors matter most
helping you gather and organize the right financial information
negotiating support terms and documenting them clearly
drafting or reviewing separation agreements that include support
updating support when circumstances change
guidance when support is unpaid or disputed
What to expect: our process
01
Consultation & information gathering
We learn your situation, review key details, and outline a path forward.
02
Strategy & negotiation
We clarify the financial picture, calculate realistic options, and negotiate terms that are fair and workable.
03
Finalize & protect the agreement
We document everything clearly—through an agreement or next legal steps—so you have stability moving forward.
What to bring to your consultation
Bring what you have, this doesn’t need to be perfect.
Helpful items include:
most recent income information (pay stubs, tax return/notice of assessment if available)
details about parenting time / living arrangements (if applicable)
information about childcare, school, or major child-related expenses
any existing agreement or court order
notes on what has been paid so far (if there are arrears)
FAQ
How is child support usually determined?
Child support is commonly guided by set rules and depends largely on income and parenting arrangements. We can help you understand what applies in your situation.
Can child support be changed later?
Yes. Support can often be updated if circumstances change (for example income changes or parenting arrangements change).
Do parents have to go to court to decide support?
Not always. Many families reach an agreement and document it in a separation agreement. If an agreement can’t be reached, court may be necessary.
What if support hasn’t been paid?
There are steps you can take. We can review what’s happening, explain options, and help you decide the most practical way forward.
What’s the difference between child and spousal support?
Child support is focused on the child’s needs and is generally treated as a priority. Spousal support may apply depending on relationship and financial circumstances.
Can we include support terms in a separation agreement?
Yes. Many separation agreements include clear support terms and a plan for future reviews.