Child support can become a significant issue in many divorces. Ultimately, the courts will apply the Connecticut Child Support Guidelines, but there may be deviations from the guideline amount if the court finds they are in the child’s best interests. It is possible for parents to resolve child support matters in mediation, a process that can empower parents to take control and work cooperatively. 

During mediation, parents exchange financial information and review one another's disclosures regarding income and property. From there, they can begin discussing what is fair and appropriate. They can also address add-ons for expenses that go beyond baseline child support, such as the sharing of costs related to child care, extracurriculars, tutoring or summer camps. Health insurance coverage, too, can be a subject of mediation, as well as arrangements for any unreimbursed medical costs. 

Negotiating a settlement can be especially beneficial for parents who have a weekly income of $4,000 or more, which makes the outcome of court-based child support proceedings less predictable. So long as the terms set comply with the Connecticut Child Support Guidelines or there is a valid reason for the parents to deviate from state standards, parents can reach their own arrangements and submit their agreement to the courts for review and approval. 

Parents can integrate their unique child custody arrangements into a parenting plan that they establish themselves during mediation. They can also establish a financial settlement that addresses property division and spousal support or alimony. Once the courts review and approve the final amount, the support arrangements can be built into a full parenting and financial settlement. 

The mediation process ultimately allows for reduced conflict and a more amicable approach to the challenging financial issues that arise during divorce. Spouses can retain control over the process while simultaneously protecting their privacy. Parents in the Hartford, Connecticut area who need to address child support and other critical matters may benefit from attending mediation with legal representation.

The O’Neil Law Firm represents parents in Hartford, Middlesex and Tolland counties in child support mediation proceedings. Please call 866-418-7593 or contact us online for a free initial consultation.