While the formula to determine child support is set by law, the amounts entered into the calculation are often in dispute. Incomes and time spent with children must be factored in to determine a fair amount of child support. Those issues and special needs can become contentious.

Child support calculations are based on the income of both parents, the amount of custody each parent has of the children and various other factors. Those numbers are entered into a statutory formula. This formula will then provide the amount of child support that is to be paid. While the calculations and the formula are not subject to change, sometimes the amounts entered into the calculation are disputed. For example, a parent’s income is often disputed, particularly when that parent does not have a straightforward salary or hourly wage. The income must be determined, requiring more in-depth investigations and the use of accounting experts.