Worcester Child Support & Alimony Lawyers
Serving Worcester, Middlesex and Hampden Counties
Financial support after a divorce or separation affects both parents and children directly, and Massachusetts uses specific guidelines to calculate both child support and alimony. Rudolf, Griffis, Ruggieri & Murray helps clients understand what they are entitled to, or what they may owe, and works to reach a fair outcome.
Whether you are seeking support or responding to a request for it, having accurate income and expense information matters, since that is what the calculation is built on.
How Support Is Calculated
- Child support: Based on both parents’ income, the parenting schedule, and the number of children, using the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines.
- Alimony: Based on the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and needs, and the standard of living during the marriage.
- Health insurance and childcare costs: Often factored into the child support calculation separately.
- Duration: Alimony duration in Massachusetts is generally tied to the length of the marriage under state guidelines.
When Support Orders Are Not Followed
Unfortunately, support orders are not always followed. If a former spouse falls behind on child support or alimony, Massachusetts courts have several enforcement tools available, including wage garnishment, tax refund interception, and, in serious cases, contempt proceedings.
If your income or your co parent’s income changes significantly, either side can request a modification rather than simply stopping payment, which can lead to serious legal consequences.