Question:
Because of my financial situation I have to had to move in with my parents. They cover some of my expenses so does the court count their contributions to my living costs as income for purposes of child support?
Also, my ex’s divorce lawyer is claiming that I get paid much more than what I’m getting paid now just because I work in a cash business environment. How do I present to the court that my only source of income is my paycheck?
Answer:
This answer only includes general divorce help for men since I am only licensed to practice in Oklahoma and am thus unable to provide legal advice on divorce.
Where I practice, your parents’ contributions to your living expenses would likely not be counted as income. A roommate’s contributions to living expenses wouldn’t count as income, so I don’t think that would not change just because you’re living with your parents.
Their contributions will however, effect the calculation of your monthly living expenses. The reduction of your monthly living expenses could be used to show that you can afford more child support or alimony payments.
How Much Should You Paying?
For calculation of child support, or in cases where the issue of alimony is presented, the income of both parties is an important factor. If your ex-wife’s divorce lawyer thinks you’re getting paid much more that what’s showed on your paycheck, the burden is on her to prove it.
All you can do is show the court the paperwork proving your income and prepare arguments against her claims that you’re making more than that. It’s a difficult thing to prove, and I wouldn’t fret too much about it if you’re not actually making more than what’s showed on the paperwork.
I would, however, strongly suggest you seek the counsel of a skilled mens divorce lawyer as you move forward to protect your financial interests and to prepare for any contingencies presented by your ex’s claims.
To set up an appointment with a Cordell and Cordell mens divorce attorney, including Oklahoma City Divorce Lawyer Christian D. Barnard, please contact Cordell & Cordell.
