Child Support Lawyers in Chicago, Illinois
Navigating the complexities of child support can be overwhelming, especially during a challenging time like a divorce. Ensuring that your child’s financial future is secure is of utmost importance, and having the right legal representation is key to achieving that goal.
At Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC, we are committed to providing the guidance and support you need to handle child support matters effectively. Whether you're establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support order, our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.
To speak with a dedicated family lawyer and child support attorney, call (312) 971-2581 or book a free consultation online by visiting our booking page.
Understanding Child Support in Illinois
What is Child Support and Why Does it Matter?
Child support is a crucial aspect of family law, designed to ensure that children receive the financial support they need from both parents, regardless of the parents' relationship status. In Illinois, child support is mandated by law and is intended to cover the basic needs of the child, including housing, food, clothing, healthcare, and education. Ensuring that both parents contribute fairly to these expenses is essential for the child's well-being.
At Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC, we understand the importance of securing a fair child support arrangement that prioritizes your child's needs. If you or are loved one are interested in hiring a lawyer for child support or any other family law matter, call the attorneys at Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC or book a free consultation online.
Use Our Illinois Child Support Calculator For A Free Estimate
Please follow the instructions to gain an estimate of your child support calculations:
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Adjusted net for each parent
Start with monthly net (or estimate from gross), then add maintenance received and subtract maintenance paidand multi‑family support paid (with/without order). -
Combined adjusted net
Add both parents’ adjusted nets. Compute each parent’s percentage share (parent net ÷ combined net). -
Basic obligation
Use the HFS Schedule of Basic Obligations for your combined net and number of children. (The tool links you there.) -
Add‑ons
Add child’s portion of health insurance, childcare, and extraordinary school/activity costs. -
Determine parenting category
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Primary/Sole: One parent has <146 overnights. That parent receives the other parent’s income‑proportionate share of the total obligation.
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Shared: Each parent has ≥146 nights. Multiply the basic obligation by 150%, multiply each parent’s share by the other parent’s parenting‑time %, then offset the two numbers. Add the payor’s pro‑rata share of add‑ons.
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Social Security derivative benefit credit
If the payor’s disability/retirement produces a child derivative benefit, credit that amount against the payor’s final monthly support (not below $0). -
Potential deviations
Courts may deviate from guideline amounts if applying them would be inequitable, unjust, or inappropriate; a written finding is required. Your attorney can advise if a deviation applies (e.g., extraordinary medical needs).
Illinois Child Support Guidelines and Calculations
Illinois uses the income shares model to calculate child support, which is considered one of the fairest approaches to ensuring that a child's financial needs are met. This model takes into account the combined income of both parents, reflecting the idea that children should benefit from the same level of financial support they would have received if their parents had remained together. The goal is to ensure that the child’s standard of living is maintained as much as possible, regardless of the changes in family dynamics.
How the Income Shares Model Works
The income shares model starts by determining the combined net income of both parents. This involves calculating each parent's income from all sources, including wages, bonuses, commissions, investments, and other income streams. The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services provides guidelines that outline the basic child support obligation based on this combined income and the number of children involved. The idea is to replicate the percentage of parental income that would have been allocated to the child if the family were intact.
Once the combined income is established, the child support obligation is divided between the parents in proportion to their respective incomes. For instance, if one parent earns 60% of the combined income and the other earns 40%, the child support obligation will be divided accordingly. This proportional division ensures that both parents contribute fairly to the child’s financial needs.
Child Custody Can Influence Child Support Calculations
While the income shares model provides a structured approach, calculating child support can become complicated when unique circumstances arise. For example, parents with fluctuating incomes—such as those who are self-employed, work on commission, or have seasonal jobs may find it challenging to determine a consistent income level for the purpose of child support. In such cases, the court may look at income trends over a longer period to arrive at a fair and accurate calculation.
Another factor that can complicate child support calculations is shared or split custody arrangements. In situations where the child spends a significant amount of time with each parent, the standard child support calculation may need to be adjusted to reflect the actual parenting time. This can lead to more complex negotiations and require a detailed understanding of how the law applies to varying custody scenarios.
Beyond basic income and custody arrangements, there are other factors that may influence the child support amount. For example, the court may consider additional expenses such as healthcare costs, educational needs, and extracurricular activities. These costs can be substantial, and it’s important that they are accurately accounted for in the child support calculation. The court may also take into account whether one parent is paying for the child's health insurance or other necessary expenses.
Our Child Support Services in Chicago, Illinois
At Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC, we represent parents in every type of child support matter throughout Chicago and Cook County. From establishing new child support orders to modifying existing ones or enforcing unpaid support, our team provides knowledgeable guidance, affordable fees, and courtroom experience. We focus on protecting your rights while ensuring your child’s needs are fully met.
Establishing Child Support Orders
When parents divorce, separate, or establish paternity, the court must create a child support order. Illinois law follows the Income Shares Model under 750 ILCS 5/505, which bases support on the combined net income of both parents and allocates it according to each parent’s percentage of that income. This approach ensures children receive the same proportion of financial support they would have if both parents lived together.
Our attorneys calculate income accurately, apply the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations, and factor in parenting time, health insurance, childcare, and extraordinary school or activity costs. When both parents have at least 146 overnights per year, the law requires the shared parenting formula, which multiplies the basic obligation by 150 percent and adjusts it according to parenting time.
We make sure these calculations are correct so your order reflects your child’s best interests.
We handle the filing of initial petitions in Cook County Circuit Court, use the Illinois Gross to Net Conversion Table when needed, and negotiate agreements to avoid costly litigation whenever possible.
Modifying Child Support Orders
Child support is not permanent. Under 750 ILCS 5/510, either parent may request a modification when there is a substantial change in circumstances. This can include a change in income or employment, an adjustment in parenting time or overnights, new childcare or medical expenses, or the emancipation of a child.
Our child support lawyers in Chicago review your current order, prepare the necessary evidence, and file petitions to increase, decrease, or terminate child support. We also represent parents opposing modifications that are unfair or not supported by law.
Enforcing Child Support Court Orders in Cook County
Unpaid child support can cause significant hardship. Illinois courts and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services have strong enforcement powers under state law. Common enforcement tools include:
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Income withholding orders that require an employer to deduct child support directly from a parent’s paycheck under the Income Withholding for Support Act
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Judgments for arrears and statutory interest on overdue support
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Driver’s license suspensions and even suspension of professional or occupational licenses for delinquent payors
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Tax refund interception and liens against property
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Contempt proceedings that may result in fines or jail for willful nonpayment
Our child support enforcement attorneys in Chicago use every available legal remedy to collect what is owed and secure your child’s financial stability.
Defending Against Unfair Child Support Claims
Sometimes child support orders are calculated incorrectly or unfairly. Parents may be ordered to pay more than the law requires because of overstated income, missed deductions, or misapplied parenting time formulas. We review income records, apply multi-family adjustments where a parent supports other children, and ensure maintenance is properly considered.
Illinois law also credits a child’s Social Security dependent benefits toward the paying parent’s obligation, and we make sure these credits are applied correctly. Our attorneys challenge inflated or inaccurate calculations so your child support order reflects what the law actually requires.
When Courts Deviate From Guidelines
Although Illinois courts generally follow the child support guidelines, 750 ILCS 5/505 allows a judge to deviate when applying the guidelines would be inequitable, unjust, or inappropriate. Courts must provide written reasons for any deviation. For example, a judge may increase support if a child has extraordinary medical needs, or adjust downward if strict application would cause undue hardship. Our attorneys present evidence to argue for or against deviations, depending on your circumstances.
Why Parents Choose Our Chicago Child Support Lawyers
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Deep experience in Cook County Circuit Court, including the Daley Center and suburban district courts
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Accurate calculations based on Illinois law and the Income Shares Model
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Affordable and transparent fees, with flat fee options and payment plans
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Balanced approach of negotiation first, litigation when necessary
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Bilingual legal team available — Se habla español
At Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC, we combine affordable representation with a strong understanding of Illinois child support law. Whether you need to establish, modify, enforce, or defend against child support, we provide clear explanations and aggressive representation to protect your financial interests and your child’s future.
Call (312) 971-2581 today or book a free consultation online with one of our Chicago child support lawyers.
Chicago Child Support Attorneys
At Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC, our team of Chicago child support lawyers is dedicated to protecting your rights and your child’s financial future. We know that child support disputes are often one of the most stressful parts of a divorce or separation. Whether you are trying to establish child support for the first time, modify an existing child support order because of a change in income or parenting time, or enforce unpaid child support against a non-compliant parent, our attorneys provide step-by-step guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.
Our firm combines in-depth knowledge of Illinois child support laws with hands-on experience in the Cook County Circuit Court, including the Richard J. Daley Center and all suburban district courthouses. We are also equipped to handle cases in DuPage County, Will County, Lake County, and Kane County. With predictable, affordable fees and personalized representation, we help parents achieve fair outcomes while minimizing conflict whenever possible.
When you hire our Chicago child support attorneys, you can expect:
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Clear explanations of how the Illinois Income Shares Model applies to your case
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Transparent, affordable fee structures with flat-fee options and payment plans
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Strong courtroom advocacy for complex cases involving arrears, enforcement actions, or high-income parents
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Compassionate but assertive representation that prioritizes your child’s best interests
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Bilingual services — se habla español
If you are searching for the best child support lawyers in Chicago, our firm stands out for delivering effective results, accessible legal support, and a proven track record of representing parents throughout Cook County and beyond.
Understanding Child Support in Illinois
In Illinois, child support is calculated under the Income Shares Model, codified in the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (750 ILCS 5/505). This model ensures that children receive the same proportion of parental income they would have enjoyed if their parents were living together. Both parents share financial responsibility for their children, not just the parent with fewer overnights.
Key factors that affect child support in Chicago and throughout Cook County include:
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Combined Net Income — Under 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(1), the court considers the combined net monthly income of both parents. Net income may be determined using the Gross-to-Net Conversion Table published by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) or through individualized tax and deduction calculations.
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Number of Children — The Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations (750 ILCS 5/505(a)(1.5)) sets support levels based on the number of children. As the number of children increases, so does the overall support obligation.
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Parenting Time (Overnights) — Under 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(3.8), when each parent exercises 146 or more overnights per year, the case is classified as shared parenting. In such cases, the basic support obligation is multiplied by 1.5 (150%), then divided proportionally between the parents according to their share of income and adjusted for parenting time.
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Maintenance (Spousal Support) — As provided in 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(3)(A)–(C), spousal maintenance received or paid by a parent is included in that parent’s net income calculation, which can increase or decrease their share of child support.
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Health Insurance Premiums — 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(4)(B) requires that the child’s health insurance costs be added to the basic child support obligation, with each parent contributing proportionally to their income share.
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Child Care Expenses — Under 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(4)(A), reasonable childcare costs (including daycare, after-school programs, and necessary supervision) are considered additional expenses and allocated between the parents.
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Educational and Extracurricular Expenses — 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(4)(D) allows the court to include extraordinary educational and extracurricular expenses, such as private school tuition, tutoring, sports, and activities, in the child support order.
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Multi-Family Adjustments — If a parent has a legal duty to support children from another relationship, 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(3)(F) provides for adjustments to net income to account for court-ordered support or actual support being paid.
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Social Security Benefits — Under 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(3)(E-5), if a child receives a derivative Social Security benefit due to a parent’s disability or retirement, the benefit is credited toward that parent’s child support obligation.
Illinois courts may also deviate from the statutory guidelines when applying them would be “inequitable, unjust, or inappropriate.” 750 ILCS 5/505(a)(3.4) requires judges to make written findings explaining why a deviation is warranted. For example, if a child has extraordinary medical needs, the court may order additional support beyond the guideline amount.
Child Support Lawyers Near Me
Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC has the best family lawyers and child support attorneys in Chicago and surrounding counties. Our areas of service include the following counties surrounding Chicago, Illinois.
Cook County Child Support Attorneys
Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC offers thorough and experienced legal representation for clients facing various types of family law issues including child support and child custody. We handle issues through various methods including litigation, negotiation, and mediation.
DuPage County Child Support Representation
Our Child Support and Child Custody lawyers are capable of representing you in your matter in DuPage County. If you are a parent that needs assistance with enforcement, abatement, modification, or reduction of child support payments, call our attorneys at (312) 971-2581 or book a free consultation online.
Lake County Custody and Child Support Lawyers
The custody and child support lawyers at Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC are committed to representing you in your case. If you are seeking a Lake County Child Support attorney, call us our attorneys at (312) 971-2581 or book a free consultation online.
Will County Child Support Representation
Our Will County child support attorneys offer comprehensive legal representation for child custody and child support matters through the following means:
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Mediation through child custody issues that are combined with child support
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Litigation for abatement and enforcement of child support issues.
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Negotiation to reduce child support owed as a result of prior court orders.
At Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC, we understand the unique challenges of each family law and child support case. Our attorneys work well with clients to protect our clients in each case.
Contact Chicago Family Attorneys for your Custody and Child Support Case
If you're dealing with child support issues in Chicago or the surrounding areas, having knowledgeable legal representation is vital. Contact Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC today to schedule a confidential consultation by calling (312) 971-2581 or booking a free consultation online.
Our child support attorneys are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of child support, ensuring your rights and your child’s best interests are fully protected.
Choose Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC for reliable and focused legal support in all aspects of child support, including establishing, modifying, and enforcing child support orders. Let us guide you through this important process with the care and attention it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support in Chicago, Illinois
How is child support calculated in Illinois?
Illinois calculates child support using the Income Shares Model under 750 ILCS 5/505. The court combines the net income of both parents, applies the Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations published by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, and allocates support based on each parent’s percentage of the total income. Parenting time, health insurance, childcare, and extraordinary educational or extracurricular expenses may also affect the final amount.
What is considered net income for child support in Illinois?
Net income includes wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of compensation minus allowable deductions. Parents may use the Illinois Gross-to-Net Conversion Table or individualized tax figures to calculate net income. Courts also consider spousal maintenance received or paid, existing child support obligations for other children, and Social Security benefits that are payable to the child.
Can child support be modified in Cook County?
Yes. Under 750 ILCS 5/510, child support may be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances. This could include a parent’s job loss, a significant increase in income, a change in parenting time or overnights, new childcare or medical expenses, or the emancipation of a child. Our Chicago child support modification lawyers file petitions in Cook County Circuit Court to increase, decrease, or terminate support based on your situation.
What happens if a parent does not pay child support in Illinois?
Failure to pay child support can result in serious legal consequences. Courts and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services may:
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Issue a judgment for arrears with statutory interest
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Enter an income withholding order requiring employers to deduct child support directly from wages
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Suspend driver’s licenses or professional licenses for delinquent parents
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Intercept tax refunds or place liens on property
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Hold a parent in contempt of court, which may include fines or jail time
Our child support enforcement attorneys in Chicago use every available remedy to collect unpaid support.
Does shared parenting affect child support in Illinois?
Yes. If each parent has at least 146 overnights per year, Illinois law applies the shared parenting formula. In this calculation, the basic child support obligation is multiplied by 150 percent, then divided between the parents based on income and offset by the percentage of time the child spends with each parent. This often reduces the paying parent’s obligation but does not eliminate it.
Can Social Security benefits reduce child support?
Yes. If a child receives Social Security dependent benefits due to a parent’s disability or retirement, those benefits may be credited toward that parent’s child support obligation. Courts apply this credit to avoid double counting, ensuring the child’s needs are met while preventing overpayment by the parent.
How long do child support obligations last in Illinois?
Child support typically continues until the child turns 18 years old or graduates from high school, whichever is later, but not beyond age 19. Courts may also order parents to contribute to college expenses under 750 ILCS 5/513, which covers tuition, housing, and other educational costs.
What if I have children from another relationship?
Illinois law allows multi-family adjustments to account for other child support obligations. If you are already paying support for children from another relationship, those payments may reduce your available income for calculating new child support. Courts distinguish between court-ordered support and actual support paid without an order.
Do I need a lawyer for child support in Chicago?
While parents can attempt to calculate support on their own, Illinois child support laws are complex and mistakes can be costly. Hiring a Chicago child support lawyer ensures that income, deductions, parenting time, and credits are applied correctly. Our attorneys also represent you in negotiations and court hearings, protecting your rights and your child’s best interests.
Call Today for a Free Consultation With A Child Custody Lawyer
Whether you need to establish, modify, enforce, or defend against child support, our team at Chicago Family Attorneys, LLC is here to help. Call (312) 971-2581 or book a free consultation online with an experienced child support attorney in Chicago.