Parents should prepare for the hearing with exact and verifiable answers to the following questions: How old is your child/children? How much do you spend on child’s clothing, food, and education?
The support case then will be scheduled to be heard by a hearing officer. A hearing officer is a lawyer appointed by the judges of the Family Court to take testimony on support cases, and make decisions regarding the amount of support. The hearing will usually be held about six to eight weeks after the conference.
In Mississippi for one child the non-custodial parent pays 14% of their adjusted gross income. For two children the non-custodial parent pays 20% of their adjusted gross income. For three children the non-custodial parent pays 22% of their adjusted gross income.
The guideline formula for determining the amount of child support is 14% of noncustodial parent's income for one child, 20% for two children, 22% for three children, 24% for four children and 26% for five or more children.
The biggest factor in calculating child support is how much the parents earn. Some states consider both parents' income, but others consider only the income of the noncustodial parent. In most states, the percentage of time that each parent spends with the children is another important factor.
Mississippi child support formula and parenting time totals In Mississippi, the child support formula is the same for sole and joint physical custody. Unlike many other states, Mississippi gives no automatic parenting time credit that can reduce your child support amount.
21 years oldThe age of majority in Mississippi is 21 years old. For child support ordered in other states, the age at which child support ends will vary. Once a child reaches the age of majority, or is emancipated, child support will be terminated, unless it is otherwise provided for in the support judgment.
Section 43-19-101 of the MS. Ann. Code of 1972 spells out the child support guidelines. Even in joint physical custody situations, someone is ordered to pay child support most of the time.
Child support orders can be modified at any time and by either parent as long as there's been a substantial change in circumstances. The parent seeking the modification must file a formal request and supporting financial documentation with the court.