Child Support

Divorcing couples often strongly disagree over who should be the primary caregiver of the child or children and who should be paying the lion’s share of child support. Here at the Poughkeepsie law firm of Brooke, Brady & Schopfer, LLP, we have been helping families address the tough issues of child support and custody for more than 30 years.

Our attorneys understand that one size does not fit all when it comes to the unique needs of every family. That is why we offer flexibility in divorce, including collaborative and the traditional litigated approaches to divorce. Only you and your divorcing spouse can determine what style best suits you.

Our mission is to provide excellent counsel with empathy and consideration. We serve clients throughout Dutchess County, New York, from our Poughkeepsie law offices. At Brooke, Brady & Schopfer, LLP, we offer clients a free initial consultation — an opportunity to consult with a qualified Poughkeepsie child support attorney with no pressure. Contact us or call 845-454-2540.

Accomplished Dutchess County Child Support Lawyers Helping You Keep Your Options Open

Generally, the parent who receives primary physical custody receives child support from the non-custodial parent. In determining child support, you do have options. You can work with your spouse to create an out-of-court child support agreement that is in the best interests of your children and yourself. Our attorneys can provide learned counsel during this collaborative process. This agreement will affect you and your children for a long time to come. We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make wise decisions.

If we cannot come to an agreement, we can pursue litigation. A disadvantage of contested divorce is that a judge, not you, will determine what is in the best interests of your children.

What the Family Court Judge Considers

  • Income expenses, including the cost of each parent providing health insurance
  • Educational costs, including tuition to a private school
  • Child care expenses
  • Medical expenses, including the cost of providing health insurance

We can also help you address child support modifications in the future, such as if you suffer a job loss or disability or the needs of the children are not being met. If the court orders child support which is not paid, our attorneys can help you pursue enforcement using the New York child support laws and criminal contempt statutes.

Contact us for a free confidential consultation with a divorce lawyer at our Poughkeepsie office.