Deviating From Nevada Child Support Guidelines

Often, guidelines and laws are not identical. Nowhere is this more evident in the legal field than in dealing with child support issues. Most states in the U.S. have adopted what are referred to as guidelines for accurately assessing what amount of child support a parent should pay, Nevada included. However, they are called guidelines for a reason – courts can and do stray from their formulas, when situations warrant. It is imperative for a parent to understand the rationale behind this.

What Power Does A Court Have?

One might ask what power a family court judge has to deviate from settled law. The answer is a decent amount, and includes a specific list of reasons to deviate from the statutory amount of child support.

Sometimes, a deviation may be sought by the noncustodial parent, for reasons that have nothing to do with the best interests of the child. They may recently have taken a pay cut, or they may simply not want to pay an amount they deem to be unjust. While a court may consider such a request, a deviation in Nevada can only occur for one of the statutory reasons.

Factors to Decide Deviation

One of the most common situations in which child support deviation is permitted in Nevada is in purchasing health insurance – because the state (and many others) hold that it is both parents’ duty to cover the medical costs of their children, insurance premiums are generally apportioned, with the noncustodial parent being able to deduct their share from support payments.

Seek Experienced Assistance

Child support is meant to ensure that your children have everything they need to live quality lives. If you have questions about the amount you are being asked to pay, it can help to consult a knowledgeable attorney. The lawyers at the Kainen Law Group are well versed in this kind of law and will work with you to move toward a fair solution for all. Call us today to set up an initial appointment.

Resource:

leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-125B.html#NRS125BSec085