Child Custody &
Parenting Arrangements

Child Support Lawyer – Ensuring Fair and Consistent Support for Your Children

Child support is a critical issue in any divorce or separation involving children. It is designed to ensure that both parents contribute financially to the care and well-being of their children, helping to maintain a stable environment for their growth and development. At Atlantis Law, we understand the complexities surrounding child support arrangements and are committed to securing a fair and just outcome for both parents and children.

Whether you are seeking child support or dealing with issues related to modifying or enforcing a child support order, our experienced family lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the process. We ensure that your rights are protected and that your child’s needs are met in accordance with Ontario’s Child Support Guidelines.

Why Choose Atlantis Law for Your Child Support Case?

  • Experienced Child Support Lawyers: Our team has extensive experience handling all aspects of child support law, including calculation, modification, and enforcement.
  • Fair and Accurate Calculations: We ensure that child support is calculated correctly based on both parents’ income, the number of children, and any special circumstances that might apply.
  • Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the emotional and financial strain child support issues can create. We work with you to resolve these matters efficiently and fairly, minimizing stress for both parents and children.
  • Clear Legal Guidance: We provide straightforward advice on your child support rights and obligations, helping you understand what to expect during the process.
  • Enforcement and Modification: Whether you are seeking enforcement of a child support order or need to modify existing arrangements due to a change in circumstances, we are here to advocate on your behalf.

Understanding Child Support in Ontario

In Ontario, child support is governed by the Child Support Guidelines set out by the federal government. The goal of these guidelines is to ensure that parents contribute fairly to the financial needs of their children, taking into account the income of both parents, the number of children, and special expenses related to the child’s care.

Types of Child Support in Ontario

  1. Basic Child Support

    Basic child support refers to the amount of money a non-custodial parent pays to the custodial parent to cover the child’s regular living expenses, including food, clothing, and shelter. This amount is typically calculated based on the paying parent’s income and the number of children involved.

  2. Special or Extraordinary Expenses

    In addition to basic child support, both parents may be responsible for paying special or extraordinary expenses, which can include:

    • Medical expenses not covered by insurance or the provincial health plan.
    • Educational expenses such as private school tuition or special education needs.
    • Child care expenses such as daycare or after-school care.

    These expenses are typically divided between the parents in proportion to their income.

  3. Shared Parenting Support

    In cases of shared or joint custody, where the child spends significant time with both parents, child support calculations may be adjusted based on the amount of time the child spends with each parent. In these cases, parents may share the costs of supporting the child more equally.

How Child Support Is Calculated in Ontario

In Ontario, child support amounts are typically based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines. The guidelines provide a standardized formula to calculate basic support, but several factors may influence the final amount.

  1. Income of the Paying Parent

    The amount of child support is primarily determined by the income of the paying parent. This includes income from all sources such as salary, business income, and investments.

  2. Number of Children

    The more children involved, the higher the total amount of child support that will typically be required. The guidelines outline specific amounts based on income and the number of children being supported.

  3. Special Expenses

    In addition to basic support, parents may need to contribute to special or extraordinary expenses such as medical costs or educational costs.

  4. Shared Custody Arrangements

    If the child spends a significant amount of time with both parents (often 40% or more), the child support amount may be adjusted to reflect the shared parenting arrangement.

Modifying Child Support Orders

In some cases, circumstances change after a child support order has been established. When this happens, it may be necessary to modify the support agreement. Common reasons include:

  • A significant increase or decrease in a parent’s income.
  • Changes in parenting time or custody arrangements.
  • Changes in the child’s needs, such as new medical or educational expenses.

At Atlantis Law, we can help you petition for a modification of your child support order if your situation has changed, ensuring that the support amounts remain fair and reflect your current circumstances.

Enforcing Child Support Orders

Enforcing child support orders is critical to ensuring that the non-custodial parent meets their financial obligations. If you are experiencing difficulties collecting child support, our legal team can assist in enforcing your support order.

Enforcement options may include:

  • Wage Garnishment: Child support payments may be garnished directly from the paying parent’s wages.
  • Property Seizure: Assets may be seized or liens placed on property to satisfy unpaid child support.
  • Court Enforcement: A parent who refuses to comply with a court order may face legal penalties.

Get Expert Legal Help with Child Support Today

At Atlantis Law, we are committed to ensuring that children receive the financial support they are entitled to and that both parents are treated fairly in accordance with the law.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your child support case and learn how we can help you navigate the complexities of child support law in Ontario.

Serving Clients Across Northern & Southern Ontario

Atlantis Law proudly serves clients in:

  • Algoma District, including Sault Ste. Marie and Elliot Lake
  • Peel Region
  • Guelph
  • Toronto
  • London, Ontario

Why Choose Atlantis Law?

  • Nearly 20 years of family law experience
  • Local knowledge of Algoma District and Ontario courts
  • Strategic, practical legal advice
  • Strong negotiation and litigation skills
  • Clear communication and honest guidance

Our goal is not only to resolve your legal matter—but to help you move forward with confidence.

Speak With a Family Law Lawyer

If you are facing a divorce, separation, property dispute, or parenting issue, experienced legal guidance can make all the difference.

Contact Atlantis Law today to discuss your family law matter and learn how we can help protect what matters most.

CONTACT US

Please fill out the form below, we will contact you as soon as possible.

    Let’s Make Legal Matters Simple.
    Call or Book Online Now.

    We are here to help you navigate the legal aspects of your relationship and to support you every step of the way.

    Email Us

    info@atlantislaw.ca

    Visit Us

    120 Eglinton Ave E, 10 Floor,
    Toronto, M4P 1E2

    Let’s Make Legal Matters Simple.
    Call or Book Online Now.

    We are here to help you navigate the legal aspects of your relationship and to support you every step of the way.

    Email Us

    info@atlantislaw.ca

    Visit Us

    120 Eglinton Ave E, 10 Floor,
    Toronto, M4P 1E2

    202 - 123 March Street, Sault Ste. Marie ON P6A 2Z5