What establishes the financial obligation of a non-custodial parent?

The financial obligation of a non-custodial parent is primarily established through child support guidelines. These guidelines, which vary by jurisdiction, provide a structured framework for determining the amount of financial support a parent must contribute for the care and well-being of their child after separation or divorce. They take into account various factors, such as the income of both parents, the needs of the child, and other relevant circumstances.

While a divorce decree may outline specific arrangements regarding child support, including any deviations from standard guidelines, the actual computations and determinations are typically based on the established child support guidelines in the respective state or jurisdiction. Thus, they serve as a foundational element for enforcing and calculating the financial responsibilities of a non-custodial parent.

The parent’s employment contract and the family's annual income can provide context and may influence the amount of child support determined under the guidelines, but they do not, by themselves, directly establish financial obligations. Instead, they are factors that the guidelines consider in creating a support arrangement.