Child Support Lawyer Serving Brookfield, WI
Horizons Law Group, LLC has helped families in Brookfield, WI, resolve complex legal matters since 2000. When a child support dispute arises, a skilled child support lawyer in Brookfield, WI, can make a meaningful difference for your family's financial stability and your child's future. Whether you need to establish, modify, or enforce an order, our attorneys are ready to help. Call
(262) 432-3600 or
book a free 15-minute consultation to get started today.
How Is Child Support Calculated in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin uses a percentage-of-income model under Wis. Stat. § 767.511 and Wisconsin Administrative Code DCF 150. The court applies set percentages to the paying parent's gross income: 17% for one child, 25% for two, 29% for three, 31% for four, and 34% for five or more. Gross income includes wages, bonuses, self-employment income, rental income, and Social Security. If a parent is voluntarily underemployed, the court may impute income based on earning capacity.
Courts may deviate from standard percentages when strict application would be unfair, considering each parent's financial resources, the child's standard of living before separation, and extraordinary medical or educational needs. When each parent has the child for at least 25% of overnight stays per year, a shared placement formula applies.
An experienced family law attorney can help you understand how these rules apply and whether a deviation may be appropriate.
What Happens When Child Support Needs to Change?
Either parent may seek a modification under Wis. Stat. §767.59 when there has been a substantial change in circumstances. Courts generally require at least 33 months since the last order, though urgent hardship may justify an earlier review.
Common grounds for modification include a significant income change, a shift in the child's placement schedule, a change in the child's health needs, or the incarceration of one parent. If both parents agree, the process moves faster; if not, a motion must be filed with the Waukesha County Circuit Court. An experienced child support lawyer in Brookfield can help you present the strongest case.
Child Support Enforcement in Waukesha County
A court order means little if the other parent is not paying. Wisconsin's enforcement tools include intercepting tax refunds, suspending driver's and professional licenses, placing liens on property, reporting delinquent parents to credit bureaus, and automatic income withholding from the paying parent's paycheck.
Waukesha County child support cases are handled through the Waukesha County Clerk of Courts. If you are receiving less than your order requires, a child support lawyer can help you pursue enforcement and protect the support your child is owed.
Our Child Support Process
Working with Horizons Law Group, LLC is designed to be clear and low-stress:
- Free 15-Minute Consultation: You share your situation, and we explain your legal options in plain language.
- Case Review and Strategy: We review your financial information and existing orders to identify the right approach.
- Preparation and Filing: We prepare and file the appropriate documents with the Waukesha County Circuit Court.
- Negotiation or Hearing: We advocate for a fair outcome through negotiation, mediation, or litigation as needed.
- Order and Follow-Up: Once an order is in place, we advise you on monitoring compliance and pursuing enforcement if needed.
Horizons Law Group offers flexible flat-fee and hourly billing options. Learn more about our family law and divorce services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Wisconsin Calculate Child Support for Shared Placement?
When each parent has the child for at least 25% of overnight stays per year, the court applies the standard percentages to each parent's income, then adjusts for placement time. The parent who owes more pays the difference.
Can a Child Support Order Be Changed After a Divorce in Brookfield?
Yes, when there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a major income change, a shift in placement, or a change in the child's needs. Courts generally require 33 months since the last order unless urgent circumstances justify an earlier review. A family law attorney in Brookfield, WI, can advise whether grounds exist.
How Long Does Child Support Last in Wisconsin?
Child support generally continues until the child turns 18 under Wis. Stat. § 767.511(4). If the child is still enrolled in high school or pursuing a GED at 18, support may extend until age 19 or graduation, whichever comes first. Support may end earlier if the child marries, is emancipated, or enters active military service.
What If the Other Parent Refuses to Pay?
Wisconsin can intercept tax refunds, suspend licenses, place property liens, and garnish wages. Our attorneys can help you pursue enforcement through the Waukesha County Circuit Court and the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.
Does Horizons Law Group Offer a Free Consultation?
Yes. Call (262) 432-3600 or schedule online to set up your free 15-minute consultation.
