A common misconception is that parents who share equal custody, known as parental responsibilities in Illinois, do not have to pay child support. However, under Illinois law, that is not necessarily true. Even when parents split parenting time 50/50, one parent might still be required to pay support if there is a significant disparity in income. A Wheaton, IL child support attorney can help you figure out how the law applies to your specific situation.
How Is Child Support Calculated Under Illinois Law?
Illinois uses an “income shares” model to calculate child support. This method, explained in Section 505 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, looks at the combined net income of both parents to determine how much money should go toward raising the child. The idea is that a child should receive the same financial support they would have if their parents stayed together.