Knowledgeable Family Law Lawyers Advising on Child Support throughout Toronto and Ontario
In Ontario, child support is determined based on a formula and is payable to the custodial parent along with additional extraordinary expenses that are not covered by the formula. Unlike spousal support, child support arrangements are normally straightforward when handled correctly. However, variables such as undisclosed income, claims of financial hardship, child contributions and custody arrangements may complicate cases. For this reason, it is important to receive legal advice about child support early in the process of separation, in order to ensure you understand and protect your legal rights.
At Gelman & Associates, our family law lawyers provide unparalleled legal representation in child support matters. Our lawyers are knowledgeable and compassionate when representing our clients, but also tough when necessary. During a difficult transitional period, our priority is to empower clients to make informed decisions about supporting a child, spousal support, the division of property and other family law matters. From the second you call to book a consultation, our goal is to offer outstanding legal counsel and a customer-centred approach to the practice of family law.
Myths About Child Support in Ontario
Facts About Child Support in Ontario
Child Support Guidelines (CSG) and Additional Expenses
In Ontario, a base amount of child support is calculated in accordance with the CSG. In order to determine the amount of support that should be payable every month to the custodial parent, the guidelines will take into account the non-custodial parents’ income and the number of children.
Parents may also have to contribute toward certain expenses in addition to the base amount of support required by the CSG. These are called “special” or “extraordinary” expenses and each parent typically contributes to these expenses in proportion to their income. Examples of such additional expenses include:
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- medical and dental insurance premiums for the child;
- health-related expenses for the child, such as orthodontics, prescription drugs, or therapy;
- the cost of school or educational programs to meet the child’s particular needs;
- expenses for post-secondary education for the child; and
- the child’s extracurricular activities, such as sports or music lessons.
Can The Amount Of Child Support Change?
Learn MoreContact Our Child Support Lawyers at one of Our Offices in North York, Downtown Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, Aurora and Barrie
Contact Gelman & Associates to learn how experienced family law lawyers can ensure the best possible support arrangement for your children. In addition to our firm’s separation and divorce handbook and numerous web-based resources, all prospective clients are given a comprehensive family law kit during their initial consultation, with ample information and resources to help individuals understand and navigate the separation and divorce process.
Serving six offices throughout North York, Downtown Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, Aurora and Barrie, our offices are easily accessible by transit and off-highway. In order to be available to clients and prospective clients, our phone lines are open Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM. Call us at (416) 736-0200 or 1-844-736-0200 or contact us online for an initial consultation.
FAQ’s:
Is it possible to change the initial agreement if I suddenly lose my job?
Yes, spouses can change the initial agreement if they both agree to the changes. However, if the spouses do not agree, a judge would determine whether to vary the order based on the requirements under the applicable legislation.
What is normally covered by child support?
Child support is meant to help with the living expenses of the child. This usually includes things like school supplies, personal care items, food, diapers, and clothing. Child support also covers the extra cost a parent has to pay to provide living space for a child.
Does the court base the amount of child support on gross income or net income?
When determining the amount of child support, the court will look at your gross income, not your net income. Gross income is the total money you earn before taxes or deductions are taken out. Child support tables are set up using gross income amounts.
