Child Support Lawyer & Enforcement Attorney

Child Support in Florida

Florida law is clear: both parents have a fundamental obligation to financially support their children. This responsibility usually lasts until a child turns 18 but may extend further if the child is still in high school (with a reasonable expectation of graduating before age 19), if the parents agree to extend support, or if the child has special needs. Conversely, support may end earlier if the child becomes emancipated, marries, or enters military service.

At The Law Office of Cindy A. Crawford, we work to ensure that child support arrangements are fair, enforceable, and tailored to meet the best interests of your children while balancing your financial circumstances.

How Child Support Is Calculated in Florida

Florida uses a statutory formula or guideline to calculate child support. This formula primarily considers:

  • Both parents’ incomes

  • The percentage of overnight timesharing each parent has with the child

  • The number of children

  • Health insurance and childcare expenses

While the formula provide a starting point, courts have some discretion in limited circumstances.

For example, in cases involving very high income, the guideline amount may exceed what is reasonably necessary to support the child. Judges may also consider the child’s age, educational needs, standard of living, and each parent’s financial resources when deciding whether to deviate from the guideline amount.

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Beyond Basic Support

An Overview of Child Support

Child support refers to the ongoing financial payments made by parents to the other for the benefit of their child or children. The primary purpose of child support is to ensure that children have the financial support necessary to meet their needs following parental separation or divorce.

Determining Child Support in Florida

In Florida, the determination of child support is based on several key factors:

  • Parental Income: The income of both parents is a crucial factor in calculating child support. This includes salaries, wages, bonuses, and other sources of income.

  • Number of Children: The number of children for whom support is being determined directly influences the amount of child support ordered.

  • Timesharing Arrangements: Whether timesharing is split equally between parents or if one parent has more timesharing affects the calculation of child support.

  • Childcare and Healthcare Costs: Additional expenses such as childcare, medical insurance, and medical care not covered by insurance are also considered.

Florida has established guidelines for calculating child support that take into account these factors to ensure fairness and consistency across cases. These guidelines provide a framework for courts to determine appropriate support amounts based on the specific circumstances of each family.

If You Cannot Pay Your Child Support

If you cannot pay your support obligations due to job loss, medical emergencies, or other legitimate reasons, it is essential to take action before arrears accumulate. Options include:

  • Requesting a modification of support

  • Seeking a temporary abatement or reduction

  • Negotiating adjusted payment plans

Proactive legal action can help avoid harsh penalties such as license suspension, asset seizure, or incarceration.

At The Law Office of Cindy A. Crawford, we combine deep knowledge of Florida’s child support laws with compassion and a client-focused approach. We:

  • Ensure accurate calculation of income and guideline amounts

  • Advocate for appropriate deviations based on your child’s needs

  • Provide guidance on modification and enforcement actions

  • Protect both parents’ rights while prioritizing the well-being of the children

Our goal is to help you navigate the legal system with confidence and secure child support arrangements that are both fair and sustainable.

Child support is not limited to monthly payments. Courts may also order parents to contribute toward:

  • Health insurance premiums

  • Uncovered medical expenses

  • Daycare or childcare costs

  • Travel expenses for visitation

  • Private school tuition or extracurricular activities (in some cases)

Our firm advocates for arrangements that reflect the child’s best interests while ensuring that neither parent carries an unfair financial burden.

Modifying Child Support

Child support orders are not always permanent. They may be modified when there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as:

  • A significant increase or decrease in income

  • Changes in child timesharing arrangements

  • Shifts in the child’s educational, medical, or financial needs

At The Law Office of Cindy A. Crawford, we help parents pursue or defend modifications to ensure orders remain accurate and fair.

Enforcing Child Support

Unfortunately, not all parents voluntarily meet their support obligations. Florida law provides several enforcement tools, including:

  • Wage garnishment and income withholding orders

  • Suspension of driver’s licenses, professional licenses, vehicle registrations, or passports

  • Interception of tax refunds

  • Contempt proceedings, which may result in fines or jail time

We assist clients in pursuing timely enforcement to protect children from unnecessary financial hardship.

Retaining The Law Office of Cindy A. Crawford

Choosing The Law Office of Cindy A. Crawford for your family law and child support needs offers a personalized and customized experience that sets them apart. Cindy’s team provides one-on-one consultations and dedicated, personalized case management to ensure that your needs are met with care and attention to detail.

With over 20 years of experience, Cindy and her team have a deep understanding of Florida's child support laws and guidelines, enabling us to provide expert guidance and representation to our clients.This specialized practice means you benefit from insights and strategies honed through handling a wide range of complex situations.

Cindy's approach is client-centered, emphasizing compassionate guidance and steadfast support throughout the legal process. She understands the emotional challenges that can accompany family law matters and strives to provide not only legal experience but also empathy and understanding.

Whether you are navigating child support issues, seeking fair timesharing, or addressing parenting plan modifications, The Law Office of Cindy A. Crawford offers a reassuring presence backed by a solid reputation for achieving favorable outcomes. Our commitment to each client's unique needs ensures that you receive the attention and advocacy necessary to move forward with confidence during challenging times.


If you’re looking for a locally known and trusted child support lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens, set up a consultation today by submitting the form below or calling our office to speak to a team member at 561-894-9050.

Feel free to browse our other pages and resources for more insights into family law and legal tips, including: Parenting and Timesharing, Child Relocation & Post-Divorce Movement, Paternity, and Dissolution of Marriage. For more information about Cindy and her team, visit Meet the Team.

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Note: This post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized legal guidance, please consult with one of our qualified attorneys.

Frequently Asked Questions about
Child Support

  • Child support is money paid by one parent to another for the child’s expenses. In Florida, child support is the legal right of the child, not the parents.

  • It is primarily based on parental income, custody arrangements, and the child’s needs.

  • Yes, if there are significant changes in circumstances as provided by law.

  • Legal actions such as contempt of the court, wage garnishment, and license suspension can be taken.

  • Until the child turns 18, in most cases, or 19 if they are still in high school and will graduate before turning 19.

  • Yes, through income deduction.

  • To enforce a child support order, you can file a motion for enforcement or contempt with the court, which can result in legal consequences for the non-paying parent.

  • No, both mothers and fathers can be ordered to pay child support, depending on timesharing arrangements and income levels.

  • Yes, child support can also cover additional expenses such as healthcare, education, extracurricular activities, and other needs of the child.

  • If you are unable to pay child support, you should seek a modification through the court as soon as possible to avoid legal consequences.