What factors must be considered when calculating child support payments?

When calculating child support payments in Maine, there are several factors that must be taken into account. These include the income of both parents, the number of children involved, the costs of providing for any special needs of the children, the number of overnights spent with each parent (which determines the amount of times each parent pays the support), and the full tapestry of costs associated with raising a child, such as health insurance, daycare, and extracurricular activities. In addition to these considerations, the court will also look into the financial capabilities of each parent and decide on the amount of contribution each can make towards child support. This amount may be modified based upon factors such as earned and unearned income, retirement benefits, child tax credits, and other sources of income. Additionally, any spousal support that is provided will be taken into account, as well as any voluntary contributions that each parent is willing to make to help support the child. Ultimately, Maine’s child support law requires that both parents provide financially for their children, and the court will consider all the relevant factors to decide on a fair amount in each case. The court will also look into the best interests of the child, factoring in potential changes in income and circumstance, to determine the final support amount.

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