In our prior post, we began a discussion about how divorce laws in California differ from Colorado, New York or any other state. The process in which property is classified -- marital or separate -- for purposes of division includes some of the most varying rules and considerations in one state versus another, but that is not the only area in which they differ.
Across the country, the theory behind child support is that it is supposed to be for the benefit of the child for healthy growth and development. Beyond that, there are many different considerations.
For example, when calculating the amount of child support each parent owes, some states will determine an obligation based upon the percentage of time that the parent spends with the child each month. In other states, there is a fixed percentage regardless of how much time is spent with the child. So a non-residential parent with 50 percent visitation time could pay an amount equal to a parent who spends a few hours per week or even month with the child.
College tuition has become an even more contentious issue between divorcing parents. The obligation to pay support for college expenses after the child has turned 18 could exist in one state but not its neighbor.
Even the assignment of legal fees differs from state to state. In California, if one spouse's income is more than the other spouse's income, the court may require the person who makes more to pay a portion of the lesser income spouse's fees.
If you are considering filing for divorce, choosing an attorney with more experience can go a long way to ensure that you are happy when your divorce is finalized.
Source: Fox Business, "How States Differ on Divorce Laws," Cindy Vanegas, May 7, 2012







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