Child support in Delaware is intended to ensure both parents meet the legal and financial obligations to support their children. Child support may have to be paid until a child turns 18 and graduates from high school or turns 19. Courts determine the level of support by using a mathematical formula, although in some cases they may consider additional factors when setting the level of support.

In Delaware, the Melson Formula is used to determine child support. This formula is based on the Standard of Living Adjustment (SOLA) as well as the basic support needs for both a noncustodial parent and the child. This formula takes into consideration the total number of dependent children, the parent’s allowance, monthly childcare expenses and other factors.

Finding Our Child Support Amounts in Your Case

If you’d like to get a sense of how much child support may be evaluated in your case, Delaware has an online Family Court of the State of Delaware Child Support Calculator that allows you to approximate child support. Do not consider this amount in any way legally binding.

The online calculator provided by Delaware Family Court is only a general resource. To understand the specific amount you may be entitled to, it is important to contact a child support lawyer in Delaware. Whether you live in Newark, DE or another community, a child support lawyer can ensure you use the right calculation and have considered all relevant factors.

In addition, if you have been awarded child support but the noncustodial spouse is not paying or is trying to hide their income, an attorney can gather evidence and seek enforcement action to ensure you get the money you need to support your child.

Unfortunately, child custody and divorce can be contentious. Before filing for divorce, or when you’re already facing a wait for child support checks, contact a child support lawyer at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya. Our family law legal teams can represent you as you seek the resources your child needs to thrive.