Child support and spousal support obligations and entitlements are determined in accordance with the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.

Each year, the State of Pennsylvania publishes support guidelines which are used to calculate the child and spousal support obligations of residents of the state.

The support obligations are based primarily upon the incomes of the parties. The Court does have the ability to impute an income to a party if it feels that it is not working to its maximum capacity. In the event a party voluntarily quits employment or is fired for cause, the Court can also impute an earning capacity to either party.

As part of the support guidelines, the Court will take into account actual taxes paid on the income, cost of health insurance, cost of daycare, and any other unusual expenses. There are special provisions that deal with high mortgage payments. Other debts of the parties including credit cards, car payments, loan payments are typically not included as items to be considered in calculating a child support obligation.

It is very important that prior to filing for support or requesting a modification that you have a qualified Attorney review your support obligations and entitlements. To learn more, call us today at 800-836-3980 or complete our easy-to-use contact form today. You'll be glad you did.

Local Custody Laws

How our Local Custody Laws Work

All custody cases in Westmoreland County start with the filing of a Custody Complaint and/or a Petition to Modify Custody. If a Complaint or Petition is filed, the parties will become involved in a three-step custody process.