Child Support
The Rhodes Law Firm helps parents in New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, River Ridge, Harahan, Luling, Boutte, Houma, and across Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, and St. Charles Parish navigate child support — whether you're seeking to establish, enforce, or modify an existing order.
Every child deserves financial support from both parents — regardless of the parents' relationship status. At The Rhodes Law Firm, we are committed to ensuring that your children's financial needs are properly addressed under Louisiana law.
How Child Support Is Calculated in Louisiana
Louisiana uses an income shares model to calculate child support under Louisiana Revised Statutes 9:315 et seq. This model is based on the idea that a child should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the family remained together.
The basic child support obligation is determined by combining both parents' gross incomes and applying the appropriate schedule. From there, adjustments are made for expenses such as:
Child care costs related to employment or job training
Health insurance premiums for the child
Extraordinary medical expenses
Agreed-upon extracurricular activities
Modifying or Enforcing Support Orders
Life circumstances change. If there has been a material change in either parent's income, the child's needs, or custody arrangement, a support order may be modified. We can help you evaluate whether modification is appropriate and guide you through the process.
When a parent fails to pay court-ordered child support, there are legal remedies available — including wage garnishment, contempt of court proceedings, and other enforcement mechanisms. We fight to ensure support orders are honored and your children are provided for.
Child Support in Orleans, Jefferson & St. Charles Parish
Child support matters in New Orleans are heard in Orleans Parish Civil District Court. Jefferson Parish child support cases — including those filed in Metairie, Kenner, Harvey, and Gretna — are heard in the 24th Judicial District Court in Gretna. St. Charles Parish cases (Destrehan, Luling, Hahnville) are heard in the 29th Judicial District Court in Hahnville.
The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) also administers a child support enforcement program for parents seeking to establish or enforce orders through the state system. Private legal counsel often results in faster and more comprehensive outcomes, particularly in complex income situations. The Rhodes Law Firm represents clients across all three parishes.
Speak With an Experienced Child Support Attorney
Serving New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Destrehan, Luling, and across Southeast Louisiana. Free initial consultation.
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