In California, child support refers to the amount a court can order a parent to pay each month for child rearing expenses. This sum is determined based on state-issued guidelines, which a child support lawyer can help you understand. Irrespective of the amount you receive, the case can also include paternity and divorce issues, making it more emotionally challenging than it already is. The decision of the court regarding who should pay for child support is based on each parent’s income levels and the time they spend with the child. The parent who is charged with providing said support must do so until the child:

• Graduates high school and turns 18
• Turns 19-years-old
• Dies, marries or joins the military

If the child is disabled, both parents will be charged with providing child support if the disability makes the child incapable of self-care.