Child support plays a crucial role in ensuring that children receive the financial support they need following a separation or divorce. In Wisconsin, child support is determined using standardized guidelines that aim to provide fairness to both parents while prioritizing the child’s best interests. If you are in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, understanding how child support is calculated can help you navigate the process more effectively.

Wisconsin’s Child Support Guidelines

Wisconsin follows a percentage-of-income model to calculate child support. The non-custodial parent’s gross income is used to determine the payment amount based on the number of children involved. The standard percentage guidelines are as follows:

  • 17% of gross income for one child
  • 25% of gross income for two children
  • 29% of gross income for three children
  • 31% of gross income for four children
  • 34% of gross income for five or more children

While these percentages serve as a starting point, courts can make adjustments based on additional circumstances.

Income Considerations in Child Support Calculations

The courts consider various sources of income when calculating child support, including:

  • Wages and salaries
  • Bonuses and commissions
  • Self-employment earnings
  • Unemployment benefits
  • Social Security benefits
  • Investment income

If a parent is unemployed or underemployed, the court may impute income, meaning it will estimate what the parent could be earning based on work history, education, and job market conditions.

Shared Placement and Child Support Adjustments

In cases where both parents share custody, Wisconsin applies a shared-placement formula instead of the percentage-of-income model. If the child spends at least 25% of overnight stays (92 nights per year) with each parent, the court considers both parents’ incomes and adjusts payments accordingly.

Under this formula:

  • Both parents’ incomes are factored into the calculation.
  • The court determines each parent’s support obligation.
  • Payments are adjusted based on the number of overnights the child spends with each parent.

Deviations from Standard Guidelines

Wisconsin courts may deviate from standard child support guidelines if strict application would result in unfairness. Factors influencing deviations include:

  • Special medical or educational needs of the child
  • Significant income disparity between parents
  • Additional expenses related to childcare or extracurricular activities
  • Financial responsibilities for children from other relationships

Modifying Child Support Orders

Child support orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as:

  • A significant change in either parent’s income
  • A change in the child’s primary residence
  • Unforeseen medical expenses or other financial burdens

To modify child support, a parent must file a motion with the court and provide supporting documentation.

Why Consult a Milwaukee, Wisconsin Attorney?

Navigating child support calculations and modifications can be complex. A knowledgeable Milwaukee attorney can assist with:

  • Ensuring the accuracy of income calculations
  • Advocating for fair adjustments in unique cases
  • Filing motions for modifications when necessary
  • Representing your best interests in court proceedings

Conclusion

Calculating child support in Wisconsin is designed to be fair while ensuring that children receive adequate financial support. Understanding the process, including income considerations, shared placement adjustments, and potential deviations, can help parents make informed decisions. If you need guidance on child support issues in Milwaukee, consulting an experienced family lawyer in Milwaukee can help you achieve a fair and just outcome for both you and your child.