Divorce can be an incredibly difficult and emotional process, not only for the divorcing parties but also for their children. As such, doing what you can to help mitigate this issue for your child and helping them process their emotions is critical. One consideration that you may make is enrolling your child in therapy to help them understand these matters. However, you may wonder if your ex will be required to financially contribute to the cost of your child’s therapy treatment. If this reflects your circumstances, you’ll want to keep reading to learn more about what’s included in child support and the importance of working with a Long Island child support lawyer to discuss your legal options.
What Is Included in Child Support Payments in New York?
If you and your spouse decide to file for divorce, one of the most important matters you’ll determine during the divorce process is child support payments. It’s critical to understand that child support is vital to ensure that the child gets the same financial support that they would have if both parents remained in the relationship.
First and foremost, you should understand how New York State determines child support costs. Typically, the court adheres to the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) formula, which requires the court to combine the income of each parent and then determine the percentage of basic child support. This percentage is based on the number of children the couple shares. For example, one child is 17%, 2 children are 25%, and so on. You should also note that the court will assign a share of this percentage to each parent based on their income.
In addition to understanding how child support is calculated, it’s necessary to understand what’s included in these payments. Typically, child support costs include the most basic care, like shelter, clothing, and food. However, you’ll find that additional expenses, like childcare, education, and healthcare, are typically included in these calculations.
Will My Ex Contribute to Our Child’s Therapy Costs?
If your child is enrolled in therapy in New York, your ex-spouse can be required to contribute to this expense, so long as it is considered medically necessary. Generally, if the recommendation for therapy comes from your child’s school, pediatrician, or even the court, it will likely be deemed a shared expense. However, if you make this decision on your own without consulting your child’s other parent, the court may not enforce this expense, especially if it is not deemed medically necessary.
When you need help getting the cost of medical and mental health care covered for your child, it’s critical to connect with an experienced attorney. At the Law Firm of Jay D. Raxenberg, P.C., our team understands how overwhelming these matters can be to navigate, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you recover the funds you deserve for your child’s care. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
