Whether you are breaking up with your child’s other parent or were never together, we imagine you have serious questions about your child’s care and financial support. This is especially true if you have questions about 50/50 custody and child support in Kentucky.
We can answer all your family law questions at the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher. Attorney Pamela Bratcher has been helping Kentucky families navigate custody and support matters for over 30 years, and she has the skills to get you the best outcome in court.
You can contact our office any time to schedule a consultation, but for now, let’s review some general answers to common questions about custody and child support in Kentucky.
How Does Kentucky Determine Custody?
Like many other aspects of life, child custody obligations often dictate child support obligations. Kentucky courts base custody decisions on the child’s best interests. When making custody orders, courts consider factors such as:
- Each parent’s wishes;
- The child’s relationship with each parent and their siblings;
- The child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community;
- Each parent’s ability to parent and foster a relationship between the child and the other parent;
- The child’s wishes;
- The child’s needs;
- Whether there is any history of neglect or abuse; and
- The health of everyone involved.
Once the court knows what custody rights each parent will receive, it can decide how to calculate child support for the parents.
How Does Kentucky Calculate Child Support?
Kentucky uses specific guidelines to determine child support payments. These guidelines consider both parents’ gross incomes, the child’s needs, the parents’ custody rights, and other relevant factors. The goal is to cover the child’s needs. In cases where parents share custody (or parenting time) equally, the court may adjust the standard calculations to reflect the shared responsibilities.
What Is 50/50 Custody in Kentucky?
With 50/50 custody, a child spends equal time with each parent, and the parents have equal authority to make decisions for the child. Courts aim to give each parent as much time as possible with the child.
Under KY joint custody guidelines, there’s a presumption that 50/50 custody is in the child’s best interest. However, you can rebut this presumption if you can show it is not in the child’s best interest. For instance, if there’s a history of domestic violence or abuse.
Does Kentucky Award 50/50 Child Support?
Typically, no. When there is an award for joint custody and child support in Kentucky, a parent might receive a child support credit for equal parenting time. However, whichever parent earns more will likely end up paying child support to the other parent.
To get an idea of your support obligations or rights, you can use a 50/50 custody and child support in Kentucky calculator on the Kentucky Division of Child Support Enforcement website. However, speaking to Pamela Bratcher about your concerns can give you a more detailed understanding of what to expect.
Receive the Best Support from the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher
Knowing how 50/50 custody and child support in Kentucky works is crucial for making the right decisions for your family. At the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher, we’re dedicated to providing personalized guidance for your unique situation. Pamela Bratcher has over 30 years of experience and top reviews from her clients. If you need help, contact us today to discuss your case and explore the best options for you and your child.
Resource List
- Kentucky Revised Statutes, §403.2122, link.