Child support is determined by a Statewide guideline. The guideline is an algebraic formula that considers the earnings of each parent, the percentage of time each parent spends with the children and other factors. Most lawyers and judges use a computer program to figure out what the guideline support is. Most courthouses have a program available for use. However, if you and your spouse agree to provide for your child s college education and that agreement is put into a judgment signed by the judge, that order is enforceable and you will be required to pay as provided in the order.
Spousal support is support payable to a spouse or former spouse that used to be called alimony.
Unlike child support, spousal support is not determined by a clear-cut guideline. There is a list of factors to be considered in determining whether spousal support should be payable and what the amount should be. The extent to which the supported party's present or future earning capacity is impaired by periods of unemployment that were incurred during the marriage to permit the supported party to devote time to domestic duties. The ability to pay of the supporting party, taking into consideration the supporting party's earning capacity, earned and unearned income, assets and standard of living. The needs of each party based on the standard of living established during the marriage.