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Child support refers to the financial assistance provided by one parent to the other for the care and upbringing of their child(ren) after separation or divorce.  Attorney Paul Moses has handled countless cases involving child support and parenting and would be happy to discuss your case and your questions.  Call us at 406.630.3032.

Generally, the parent with whom the child spends less time is responsible for paying child support to the parent with whom the child spends more time. However, the specific responsibility may vary depending on the particular circumstances of your case.

In Montana, child support is determined based on the Montana Child Support Guidelines, which consider factors such as the income of both parents, the number of children, and any extraordinary expenses related to the child's needs.  As with other family law issues, Montana provides online forms for calculating child support.  I strongly advise against relying on these forms as they are somewhat oversimplified and do not always take into consideration the specifics of your case.  Seek the help of an experienced child support lawyer in Montana when dealing with child support issues  in Montana.

Typically, child support is intended to cover the basic needs of the child, including food, shelter, clothing, and medical care.  It may alo contribute to other expenses related to the child's education, childcare, extracurricular activities, and healthcare.  But because every situation is different, just as every child is different, you should seek the help of an experienced child support lawyer in Montana when dealing with child support in Montana.

Yes, child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, a change in the child's needs, or a change in parenting time. 

In Montana, child support typically continues until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. However, if the child has special needs or disabilities, child support may continue beyond this age. 

Nonpayment of child support in Montana is taken seriously. If a parent fails to pay child support, various enforcement measures can be taken, such as wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, suspension of driver's licenses, or even contempt of court proceedings, which may result in fines or imprisonment. 

Yes, child support orders can be enforced across state lines,  The Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) allows for cooperation and coordination between states in enforcing child support orders and facilitating the collection of child support payments. 

Yes, child support orders in Montana can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income or a change in the child's needs. You should file a request for modification with the court to initiate the process.

Typically, courts consider various factors when deciding whether to modify child support, including the financial circumstances of both parents, the child's needs, and any other relevant factors that affect the child's well-being. 

If one parent refuses to cooperate or disagrees with the requested modification, you can still ask a court for a modification.

If you're unable to afford the court-ordered child support, you may request a modification of the child support order. It is important to provide valid reasons and documentation to support your claim for a modification.

No, but you can do your own brain surgery, too.  In either instance, the results will be the same:  bloody and irreversible.  So while you are not required to have an attorney, it is highly recommended to seek experienced legal representation if you have questions about or are interested in issues related to child support in Montana.