In a recent court hearing, discussions centered around child support obligations and the application of timeshare credits between parents. The case involved a proposed adjustment to child support payments based on the mother's anticipated income of $18 per hour from her job at Tyson Foods. The proposed calculations indicated that the father should pay approximately $180.22 in child support, which aligns closely with his current obligation.
However, the opposing counsel presented a worksheet suggesting that the mother’s income, without considering timeshare credits, would result in a higher support obligation of $625. The court noted that to qualify for shared parenting time credit, a parent must maintain care and custody of the child for at least 88 days per year, a point of contention in this case.
The father expressed concerns about not being able to exercise his parenting time, claiming that the mother was withholding access to the children. The judge emphasized that the father should formally request a contempt order if he believes the mother is not complying with the court's existing orders.
The discussion also touched on the mother's recent maternity leave, raising questions about whether her temporary absence from work should affect child support calculations. The court suggested mediation as a potential avenue for both parties to reach an agreement on child support, with the Commonwealth proposing a figure of $700, which the father argued was excessive.
Ultimately, the father indicated a willingness to negotiate, suggesting he could manage a payment of $350, while the court hinted that a figure closer to $450 might be more appropriate. The hearing underscored the complexities of child support arrangements, particularly in cases involving shared custody and changes in parental income.