When families transition through divorce or separation, one of the most pressing questions is always: “How much is the child support going to be?” Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation circulating in coffee shops and online forums. In Arkansas, child support is governed by strict legal standards designed to ensure that a child’s needs are met regardless of the parents’ relationship status.
Common Myths About Child Support
Myth 1: "If we agree to no support, the court has to follow it."
Myth 2: "If I have 50/50 custody, I don't pay anything."
Myth 3: "I can stop paying if the other parent denies me visitation."
How Support is Calculated: Administrative Order 10
In 2020, Arkansas moved to the Income Shares Model, which is detailed in Administrative Order No. 10. This model is based on the idea that a child should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together.
The Calculation Process:
- Determine Gross Income: The court looks at the gross income of both parents.
- Consult the Family Support Chart: The combined income is applied to a state-mandated chart to find the “basic support obligation.”
- Proportional Share: Each parent is responsible for a percentage of that obligation based on their share of the combined income.
- Add-Ons: Costs for health insurance, extraordinary medical expenses, and work-related childcare are added to the basic obligation and split proportionally.
Is child support optional? No. Under Administrative Order 10, there is a “rebuttable presumption” that the amount calculated by the Family Support Chart is the correct amount to be awarded. Any deviation requires a written finding by the judge explaining why the chart amount would be unjust or inappropriate.
How CLM Law Firm Can Help
Calculating support under the Income Shares Model can be technically challenging, especially when dealing with self-employment, fluctuating bonuses, or complex health insurance premiums.
At CLM Law Firm, we provide flexible ways to help you navigate this crucial element of your case without necessarily requiring a full-scope retainer.
A La Carte Child Support Orders
If you and the other parent have reached an agreement but need a legally sound, court-ready Child Support Order that complies with Administrative Order 10, we offer this as an “a la carte” or unbundled service. We prepare the calculations and the paperwork so you can be confident it will be accepted by the judge.
Legal Guidance Sessions
Unsure where you stand? We offer dedicated Legal Guidance Sessions with our attorney. This is a focused one-on-one meeting where we can run the numbers for you, discuss potential deviations, and help you understand your rights and obligations before you step into a courtroom.
The Unbundled Alternative
For those who want to represent themselves but need professional “back-up,” our unbundled services at www.clmfamilylawfirm.com allow you to pay only for the specific help you need. Whether it’s drafting, a consultation, or a single hearing appearance, we help you save money while maintaining high-quality legal protection. Of course, we always stand ready to fully represent you in court if you wish.
Contact CLM Law Firm at (870)-203-8157 to schedule your guidance session and take the guesswork out of child support.
Note: This blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are facing family law issues or have criminal charges, please consult with a licensed attorney regarding the specifics of your case.