Child support can be a wildly confusing and overwhelming process. If you’re facing potential child support – short or long-term – it’s essential to know a few things about how it works in Mississippi and why it’s a good idea to consult an experienced family law attorney before agreeing to any support situation.
How Does Mississippi Determine Child Support?
Sections 43-19-101 and 43-19-103 of the Mississippi Annotated Code of 1972, as amended, detail child support laws in the state. In Mississippi, the person who is obligated to pay child support is often referred to as the “obligor,” and the person entitled to receive child support is often referred to as the “oblige.”
Mississippi does not consider the income of both parents when calculating child support, only considering the income of the non-custodial parent (the one who does not have primary custody). In Mississippi for one child, the non-custodial parent pays 14% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). For two children, this increases to 20% of their AGI. Three children: 22%, four children: 24%, and five or more: 26%.
What is the Duration of Child Support in Mississippi?
The duty ends upon the emancipation of the child. Emancipation is when the child turns 21, marries, joins the military and serves on a full-time basis, or endures a felony conviction and is sentenced to incarceration of two or more years for committing said felony.
Outstanding Circumstances with Mississippi Child Support
The state’s child support guidelines may be overcome by showing certain extraordinary expenses, whether medical, educational, psychological, or dental; independent income of the child; payment of both child support and spousal support to the oblige; seasonal variations in one or both parents’ income and expenses, or a range of other potential issues all in an effort to promote an equitable resolution relative to the law. If the parents are not married, the court can retroactively mandate child support for up to 12 months.
With all of these rules and regulations, it’s easy to see why hiring a Jackson or Brandon child support attorney is crucial. It’s important to have aggressive and experienced representation on your side so you can rest assured you have the best advocate for your personal situation. Reach out to the qualified child support and divorce law team at the Law Offices of Rusty Williard. Call (601) 824-9797 to schedule your free consultation.