Divorce and Childcare: Who Pays for it?

Boy in museumLet’s face it: Childcare can be expensive. Depending on your circumstances, fully paying for daycare costs may not be within the realm of possibility, which is where it becomes an issue. Because of this possibility, the courts must make considerations regarding who will pay for the childcare. With any child support determinations, the income or earning potential of each parent is taken into consideration.

Non-custodial parents are usually surprised when they find out that childcare expenses may not only cover child support, but also the expenses of daycare and babysitting services. Since many parenting relationships consist of both parents working these days, one or both parents may require that somebody watch the children while they are away. Because courts tend to lean toward splitting costs 50/50, you may find that a judge will mandate that you and the other parent equally contribute to the daycare bills.

There are many factors considered in these unique cases, which is why it is important to speak to an attorney before you speak to the court. There are factors that you must consider such as one parent needing to take classes and being unable to foot half the expenses, or speaking about when the child will no longer need daycare. Give us a call today to find out more information on how we can help you if you have questions concerning childcare.