Legal Tips Resource Center
Know the rules. Fight smart. Protect the bond.
Plain-language, court-ready guidance across the eight areas that matter most in a father's custody case. Educational only — always confirm with a licensed attorney in your state.
Child Support & Imputed Income
Know how support is calculated and how parenting time can affect it.
What to understand
- Most states use an 'Income Shares' model based on both parents' combined income; others use a percentage model.
- Increased parenting time can reduce a support obligation in many states.
- Courts can 'impute' income if they believe a parent is underemployed on purpose.
- Support and parenting time are legally separate — you can't stop paying because visitation is denied.
Action checklist
- Gather accurate income documentation for both parents
- Track your actual overnights — they often affect the calculation
- Request a modification if your income changes substantially
Official resources
Links open official government, court, or nonprofit resources.