Child Support Is About the Child
Support is intended to help cover a child’s living expenses—housing, food, clothing, school-related costs, and basic care—so the child has consistent support across both households.
Child support is about meeting a child’s needs—not punishing one parent or rewarding the other. Whether you’re establishing support, modifying an order, or enforcing unpaid amounts, our job is to help you reach a result that is accurate, enforceable, and workable for real life in Missouri or Illinois.
Child support exists to protect children’s stability. It helps cover day-to-day needs and ensures both parents contribute fairly based on income, parenting time, and specific expenses.
Support is intended to help cover a child’s living expenses—housing, food, clothing, school-related costs, and basic care—so the child has consistent support across both households.
Child support is not designed to punish the paying parent or provide a windfall to the receiving parent. It’s a legal structure to make sure children are financially supported in a fair, predictable way.
Both Missouri and Illinois use guideline-based calculations, but the inputs and methodology differ. Accuracy matters—so does how income is defined (bonuses, commissions, overtime, self-employment, cash income, and benefits).
We don’t guess. We gather proof, verify income sources, and make sure the calculation reflects the reality of your parenting schedule and expenses—so the number is defensible and enforceable.
Support is stressful when it feels arbitrary. We walk you through the guidelines, the inputs, and the “pressure points” that usually change results—so you can make informed decisions.
Some support matters look simple—until they’re not. We routinely handle cases where standard assumptions don’t fit the facts.
Support orders are not always permanent. If life changes substantially, the law may allow an adjustment—but there are rules, timing issues, and proof requirements.
Courts generally require proof and may not change support retroactively in the way people expect. If you’re paying too much—or receiving too little—waiting can be expensive.
A support order only helps if it’s followed. If support is not being paid, there are legal options to pursue compliance and collect arrears.
If you’re behind, you still have options—but you need a strategy. Courts take support seriously. We can help you address arrears, document changes in circumstances, and pursue lawful modification when appropriate.
Both states use guideline-based support, but the framework differs. Here are the most important distinctions families should understand before negotiating or litigating support.
Clear answers to what parents ask when they’re trying to plan, budget, and protect their kids.
This page provides general information as of 2026 and is not legal advice. Laws, local court rules, and procedures can change. Consult an attorney for guidance specific to your situation.