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4 Important Facts About Child Support in Georgia

February 3, 2023

Child support is an important part of a divorce or separation in the state of Georgia. Whether a couple is going through a divorce, legal separation, or annulment, they will need to make arrangements for the care and support of any dependent children. In today’s article from The Fairell Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, we are going to discuss four important facts that parents should understand about child support in Georgia. Read on to learn more.

a paper with the title Child Support Agreement

Child Support Guidelines

Georgia has established child support guidelines to determine the amount of child support that must be paid by either parent. The guidelines are based on a variety of factors, such as the number of children, the income of both parents, and the parenting time arrangement. The guidelines are designed to ensure that the child receives an appropriate level of financial support.


In some cases, the court may deviate from the child support guidelines when determining the amount of child support that is to be paid. This can happen if the court finds that following the guidelines would be unjust or inappropriate in the particular case. The court may also consider other factors, such as the parents’ relative incomes, the standard of living enjoyed by the parents prior to the divorce, and the needs of the children. 

a mother smiling at her child while she holds them

Modification of Child Support

If the circumstances of either parent or the child changes, the child support order may be modified. Parents may seek to modify child support for a variety of reasons, such as a change in income or an increase in parenting time. If the parents agree, they can file a stipulation with the court to modify the child support order. The court will then review the request and decide if a modification is warranted.

Child Support Court Hearing

Enforcement of Child Support

It is important to keep up with payments. Not paying child support can have serious consequences. In Georgia, a parent who fails to make payments may be held in contempt of court. This can result in fines, jail time, or other penalties. 


Additionally, if a parent fails to pay child support, the receiving parent may take action to enforce the order. There are a variety of enforcement options available in Georgia, such as wage garnishment, withholding tax refunds, and suspending driver’s licenses.

a smiling young woman holding a backpack

Termination of Child Support

Child support typically terminates when the child is no longer a minor; however, there are exceptions. In Georgia, child support may be extended beyond the age of majority if the child is still a full-time student, or if the child is disabled.

Work With an Experienced Family Law Attorney

Child support is an important issue in Georgia that can have a major impact on the welfare of children. It is important for both parents to understand their legal obligations and to adhere to the court’s orders. An experienced divorce attorney can help parents navigate the system and ensure that their rights are protected. If you’re in need of a family law team to help you navigate divorce and child custody in Atlanta, Georgia, reach out to the team at The Fairell Firm today.

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