Every case is different, and there is not one recipe to determine child support.

Often, there are several factors taken into account when determining child support.

A judge will look into each parent's income, the number of children, and the time each parent spends with the children to determine a specific amount.

If there are exceptional circumstances or unique child-related expenses, a judge may take that into consideration.

You’re entitled to support that covers the child’s basic needs.

In some cases, the court may decide to add support on top of the basic child support you’re entitled to. Expenses for uninsured health care, child care during work hours, education, and travel expenses related to visitation could be added at the court’s discretion.

The court will usually split these expenses equally between the parents.

However, if there is a significant difference in the parents' incomes, the court may order that each parent pays an amount in proportion to their income.

Yes, parents can make their own agreement for child support and submit it to the court for review and approval. The agreement should state that:

• Both parents know their rights
• Neither parent was forced to enter the agreement
• The agreement is in the children's best interest
• The parents haven’t applied for and don’t currently receive public assistance

If the court finds that the child support amount is in the child's best interest, it will approve the agreement and issue a child support order.

In general, parents must pay child support until their children are 18 years old. There are a few exceptions:

• If your child is legally emancipated, you no longer have to pay child support. Children can become legally emancipated for a number of reasons. For example, if they get married, obtain a declaration of emancipation from a court, or enter active military duty.
• If your child is 18 years old, a full-time high school student, and not self-supporting, the duty to pay child support extends until the child is 19 years old or completes 12th grade, whichever is sooner.
• Parents can agree to a child support order that extends longer than what is required under the law.

This depends on who earns more, also known as the primary earner.

If you’re the primary earner or are in a position to support your former spouse, you may be required to pay spousal support.

If your spouse is the primary earner or is in a position to support you financially, you may be entitled to spousal support.

Keep in mind, in an uncontested divorce, you may be able to make your own agreement with your former spouse.