Skip to Content
Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law
Serving Northwest Louisiana for Over 20 Years 318-633-0186
Top
Child Support

Shreveport Child Support Attorneys

Helping You Understand Your Rights & Obligations

Child support is a court-ordered payment made by one parent to the other to help cover the costs of raising a child. The parent who has primary custody of the child is typically the one who receives child support, while the noncustodial parent is the one who pays it. Child support is intended to help cover the costs of a child’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter, as well as other expenses, such as medical care and education.

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we understand that child support can be contentious in many divorce and paternity cases. Our Shreveport child support lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and obligations under the law and guide you through the legal process. We can help you seek a fair child support order, or, if you are the one who will be paying child support, we can help you ensure that the order is reasonable and manageable.

For the legal guidance in your family law matter, call our office at (318) 633-0186 or contact us online today.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Louisiana?

Child support is calculated using a specific formula that includes several considerations. In Louisiana, child support is calculated using the Louisiana Child Support Guidelines.

Some of the factors that are taken into account when calculating child support include:

  • The parents’ gross monthly income
  • The number of children
  • The amount of time the children spend with each parent
  • The cost of health insurance
  • The cost of work-related childcare
  • The cost of extraordinary medical expenses

It is important to note that while the Louisiana Child Support Guidelines provide a formula for calculating child support, the court has the discretion to deviate from the guidelines if it is in the child’s best interests. This is why it is so important to have an experienced child support attorney on your side who can help you present a strong case to the court.

How Long Does Child Support Last In Louisiana?

Child support in Louisiana often continues until the child turns eighteen. If the child is still enrolled in high school, support could last until their graduation or 19th birthday, whichever comes first. There are several exceptions, such as when both parties agree to provide assistance or when the child has special requirements. A child support lawyer at Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law may offer advice on these details and make sure that your rights and duties are handled correctly. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law our family law attorneys are skilled in handling these issues and can provide customized guidance based on your unique scenario in order to safeguard your rights and interests.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay Child Support in Louisiana?

Child support is a court-ordered payment, and failing to pay it can result in serious legal consequences. If you do not pay child support in Louisiana, you may be subject to both civil and criminal penalties.

Some of the penalties for nonpayment of child support include:

  • Wage garnishment
  • Seizure of tax refunds
  • Liens on property
  • Suspension of driver’s license
  • Suspension of professional licenses
  • Contempt of court
  • Arrest and jail time

It is important to note that, while you may be facing financial difficulties, you cannot simply stop paying child support. If you are unable to make your child support payments, you must go to court and request a modification. If the court agrees that there has been a substantial change in circumstances, it may lower your child support obligation.

How Can I Modify An Existing Child Support Order In Louisiana?

In Louisiana, it is necessary to provide evidence of a substantial change in circumstances, such as a change in the child's requirements or income, in order to modify an existing child support order.

A support order is only eligible for modification if one or more of the following is true:

  • The original child support order was established and/or modified more than 3 years ago
  • The monthly amount of the order deviates from child support guidelines by at least 25%; or
  • The circumstances surrounding the child support order have changed significantly since it was originally established such as a parent’s income has increased or decreased, medical coverage for a child has changed, the child(ren) are living with another parent

A child support lawyer in Shreveport at Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law can help you navigate this legal procedure, making sure all required paperwork is filed and advocating on your behalf at any hearings. Child support attorneys are skilled in making strong arguments for modifications, whether they are brought about by changes in custody agreements, job losses, or health problems, making sure the modification is in the best interests of the child.

What Are the Child Support Laws in Louisiana?

Child support laws in Louisiana are governed by the Louisiana Child Support Guidelines, as well as the Louisiana Revised Statutes. These laws outline how child support is calculated, how it is enforced, and the penalties for nonpayment.

Some of the key child support laws in Louisiana include:

  • Child support is typically paid until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later
  • Child support may be extended if the child has a disability
  • Child support may be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances
  • Child support is not tax-deductible for the paying parent and is not considered taxable income for the receiving parent
  • Child support is not dischargeable in bankruptcy

How Can a Child Support Lawyer Help?

Child support is a complex issue, and it is important to have an experienced child support attorney on your side who can help you navigate the legal process. 

Our child support services include helping you:

  • Understand how child support is calculated
  • Gather the necessary financial documents
  • Present a strong case to the court
  • Seek a child support modification
  • Enforce a child support order
  • Defend against child support arrears

Whether you are seeking child support or are the one who will be paying it, we can help. We are committed to providing each and every client with the personalized legal solutions they need and the supportive guidance they deserve.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you need help with a child support matter, turn to Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law. Our Shreveport child support lawyers can help you understand your rights and obligations under the law and guide you through the legal process. 

Call our office at (318) 633-0186 or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.

  • “Professional, kind, and knowledgeable.”
    Extremely satisfied with Ryan E Gatti Attorney At Law! Everyone was so professional, kind, and knowledgeable. They made us feel comfortable while creating our last will and testament. Highly recommend!
    - Allie Keith
  • “Treated me like family.”
    Had an amazing experience with Ryan E. Gatti Attorney At Law. They treated me as if I was family. They listened to my concerns and fought for me so I could heal. Super impressed with the outcome. Highly recommend.
    - Michelle McGee
  • “Knowledgeable, personable, sincere.”
    Ryan E Gatti & team has been amazing to work with. Custody battles can be stressful, but the team made it easier emotionally, mentally, and physically. They kept my child's best interests a priority. Knowledgeable, personable, and truly compassionate. Highly recommend.
    - Heather G.
  • “Excellent legal advice, very responsive.”
    Ryan E Gatti has been excellent to work with for years. Their broad legal knowledge and valuable advice stand out. The team is always very responsive and passionate about helping those in need. Recommended for anyone seeking legal advice.
    - Christian A.
  • “They treat you like family.”
    The best! There's no other firm in the Shreveport-Bossier City area you should think about for your family court or custody case. They worked hard to win my case, even during the pandemic. They treat you like family, and you truly feel in the best hands. Thank you and God bless.
    - Jason A.
  • “Treats clients like family.”
    Ryan E. Gatti is a class act, treating clients like family. The team provides high professionalism, exceeding expectations. They are responsive, answer questions, and provide transparency in your case. Highly recommended.
    - Mary H.
  • “They treat you like a part of their family and you truly feel that you are in the best hands possible.”
    “THE BEST!!!! There is no other firm in the Shreveport Bossier City area you should even think about for your family court or custody case.”
    - Jason A.
  • “Everybody up there is very professional and courteous.”
    “They always notified me of what was happening and the next steps in the process. They price of my case was very reasonable, as well. They are proficient and very thorough.”
    - Brandon S.