Experienced Clinton Township Child Support Lawyer
Last updated on April 22, 2026
Whether seeking to establish a child support order, modify an existing one or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can be beneficial. Michigan law has specific guidelines for calculating child support, but every case is unique, requiring careful legal attention to protect your rights and your child’s best interests.
I am attorney Jessica Lashier, and I have provided dedicated legal services in Clinton Township, Michigan, since founding my firm in 2012. Lashier Law, PLLC, has major experience handling child support cases and guiding parents through the legal process with knowledge and dedication. I understand the financial and emotional complexities involved and work diligently to advocate for the best possible outcome in every case.
Establishing Child Support
In Michigan, child support is determined based on factors such as:
- Each parent’s income
- The number of children
- Health care costs
- Child care expenses
Courts use the Michigan Child Support Formula, but it is vital to have a family law attorney who can assess your unique situation and present a strong case. Whether you are seeking child support for the first time or responding to a request, I can help you understand your rights and obligations under Michigan law.
Modifying Child Support Orders
Life circumstances change, and a child support order may need to be adjusted to reflect new financial realities. If you or the other parent has experienced a significant change in income, medical expenses or parenting time, you may be eligible for a modification.
I help parents in Clinton Township petition for modifications and present compelling evidence to support necessary adjustments. As a dedicated attorney, I work to help parents achieve fair and legally sound modifications that prioritize their child’s needs.
Enforcing Child Support Payments
When a parent fails to meet their child support obligations, legal action may be required to enforce payment. Michigan courts take child support enforcement seriously, using methods such as wage garnishments, tax refund interceptions and license suspensions.
If you are not receiving court-ordered child support, I can help you take the necessary steps to collect what is owed to your child.
How Michigan Calculates Child Support
Michigan relies on a detailed formula to determine child support, but the calculation goes beyond a simple income comparison. Courts look at how each parent earns money and what resources are available to support the child.
Key financial elements include:
- Total income: Courts review gross income, which may include wages, bonuses, commissions and other earnings rather than just net pay
- Self-employment income: Business earnings may be adjusted to reflect actual usable income after necessary expenses
- Additional income sources: Rental income, investments or other financial streams may be considered
- Child-related costs: Health care and childcare expenses are factored into the final support amount
These details help create a support figure that reflects each parent’s financial situation. A lawyer can review these inputs to confirm accuracy and fairness.
How Parenting Time Affects Support Obligations
Parenting time directly influences how much child support is ordered in Michigan. The number of overnights each parent has with the child can significantly change the financial outcome.
Important considerations include:
- Overnight distribution: More time with the child may reduce a parent’s support obligation
- Shared custody arrangements: When parenting time is more balanced, financial responsibility is often adjusted accordingly
- Primary custody situations: The parent with greater day-to-day responsibility typically receives support
- Schedule changes: A shift in parenting time may justify revisiting the support order
Factors show how closely parenting schedules and financial support are connected. An attorney can help present accurate information to support a fair calculation.
When Child Support Ends In Michigan
Child support obligations do not continue indefinitely, but the end date depends on specific legal conditions and the facts of each family’s situation. Understanding these rules can help parents prepare for what comes next.
Support typically ends under the following circumstances:
- Age 18: Support usually continues until the child reaches adulthood, unless other conditions extend the obligation
- High school enrollment: If the child is still attending high school at 18, support may continue until graduation or a statutory age limit
- Emancipation: Legal independence, such as living separately and being self-supporting, may end support earlier
- Marriage or military service: These life events often signal financial independence and may terminate support obligations
In some cases, support may continue beyond age 18, particularly when a child has significant needs or when parents agree to extended support terms. These situations often require careful documentation and court approval to remain enforceable. A lawyer can review your order, explain how Michigan law applies to your circumstances and help you take appropriate steps if support should end or continue.
Secure Your Child’s Future Today
Child support matters are too important to handle alone. Whether you need to establish, modify or enforce child support in Clinton Township, Michigan, Lashier Law, PLLC, can provide experienced legal guidance.
Call me at 586-219-1984 or contact me online today for your free initial consultation – together, we can safeguard your child’s financial future.