Alabama Child Support Guidelines
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed February 14, 2023
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Each state sets guidelines for determining child support. Judges use these guidelines to determine what a parent must pay after parents separate. The guidelines of all states use a parent's income to assess what a parent's obligation is under any child support arrangement. Other factors may also be taken into account.
Continue reading for a breakdown of child support guidelines in Alabama.
What Guidelines Will the Judge Follow to Determine Child Support?
Alabama child support guidelines provide a standard of support that's subject to the ability of the parents to pay. These guidelines ensure that the support is fair and consistent among people in similar circumstances.
Alabama's guidelines are based on the "income shares model" that was developed by the National Center for State Courts. The general intent of child support is to provide for the child in the same manner that they would have been provided for had the family stayed intact.
Alabama Child Support Guidelines at a Glance
While it's important to read the actual language of the law, an overview of the statutes can help you to better understand the law. The following chart offers a helpful overview of Alabama laws related to child support guidelines as well as links to applicable statutes.
Statute(s) |
ARJA Rule 32 Rule 32. Child Support Guidelines |
|---|---|
Who's Responsible? |
Both parents |
Deviating from the Guidelines |
The court may deviate from the child support guidelines for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:
|
Calculating Child Support |
Basic steps for calculating child support:
|
Related Statute(s) |
|
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Alabama Child Support Guidelines: Related Resources
If you'd like additional information and resources related to this topic, you can visit the links listed below.
Talk to a Lawyer to Learn More About Alabama Child Support Guidelines
Even if you and your partner no longer want to be together, it's important that you both provide financial support to your child. If you'd like to learn more about child support guidelines as they apply to your unique situation, it's a good idea to speak with an experienced child support attorney near you.
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