Child support is an ongoing payment from one parent to another to be used for the benefit of the child. It is designed to protect the child from some of the common financial repercussions of divorce—especially if one parent is less prepared to earn an income after the marriage than the other is. To help you avoid snags in the process, here is a guide on seeking a child support judgment.

Do:

Retain a skilled attorney.

Child support is often a contentious matter, so you need skilled legal representation. Choose an attorney with considerable experience in this practice area. Look for someone who specializes in family law rather than, for instance, a personal injury litigator who dabbles in divorce cases.

Establish legal fatherhood.

In cases where parents were not married when a child was born, couples need to first establish paternity. Many fathers will do this of their own accord. However, if your partner refuses, you can request a blood test to confirm a genetic relationship.

Don't:

Withhold visitation.

It is important for the child to have a relationship with both parents. Although it may be unfair for one parent to withhold child support payments, it only harms the child further if you use that as an excuse to withhold visitation. Do not use your child as a lever to extract money from your ex.

Defame the other parent.

Your child's relationship with the other parent is essential to their well-being. No matter how angry your ex makes you, avoid the temptation to badmouth them to—or even in front of—your child. Not only might it interfere with a healthy parent-child relationship, but it could also backfire and make your child resent you.

If you seek child support from your child's other parent, contact McPherson & McPherson Attorneys at Law in Coupeville, WA. Serving Whidbey Island since 1997, the law firm specializes in family law matters. Their practice areas include wills, probate, paternity, guardianship, and divorce. Visit their website to learn more about the firm or call (360) 678-4407 to arrange a consultation.