CHILD SUPPORT. WHO DECIDES THE AMOUNT?
In response to federal legislation, Michigan has adopted child support guidelines that establish the methods for calculating child support. These guidelines are designed to ensure consistency and predictability in child support amounts. Though difficult to do, it is possible to deviate from these guidelines. The court may increase or decrease the amount of support as long as it gives specific reasons for doing so. Primarily, the courts are seeking to balance the financial needs of the child, with the non-custodial parent’s ability to pay. The incomes of both parents are used in determining child support. Child support typically ends when the child graduates from high school, or turns 18 years of age, but not later than 19 1/2. 14.
