Q: What are my options as far as custody & child support if me and my girlfriend were to separate?
Would I automatically be forced to pay monthly child support even if I already support the child?
A: If the custodial parent, which is the parent where the children primarily live, files a complaint for child support with the Court then yes, both parents have an obligation to financially support the children. If the mother is the custodial parent and files through the Court then she wants the Court's assistance in monitoring and enforcing the support payments. Most counties' domestic relations offices will issue a wage attachment so the support is taken directly out of your pay if you are a w-2 employee. If you are already paying support then it should not matter whether you pay directly to the mother or if the state handles the support payments. Contact a local attorney for additional information on the amount of support likely owed based on each parent's income.
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