Child Support Attorney in Des Moines, Iowa

Clear Legal Guidance for Child Support in Des Moines, Iowa

When families separate, one of the most important—and often most emotionally charged—issues that follows is financial support for the children. Whether you’re the parent seeking support to meet your child’s needs or the parent being asked to provide it, the child support process in Iowa can feel overwhelming. Questions about fairness, financial strain, and legal obligations often arise, making it difficult to move forward.

At Feitelson Law Firm, we help parents in Des Moines navigate child support matters with clarity and confidence. Our attorney brings over 20 years of experience in Iowa family law and is committed to helping parents understand their rights, responsibilities, and options under the law. Whether you’re establishing a child support order, seeking modification, or facing enforcement actions, we are here to provide honest guidance and practical solutions every step of the way.

We understand that child support isn’t just about numbers—it’s about ensuring children have the resources they need to thrive. We approach each case with compassion and focus, starting with an initial consultation, to help you build a foundation of financial stability for your family’s future.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Iowa?

Many parents are surprised to learn that child support isn’t based on guesswork or negotiation alone. In Iowa, support is calculated using mandatory state guidelines considering parents’ incomes, parenting time, and the child’s needs. However, while the guidelines offer structure, they don’t always account for the complete picture of a family’s financial situation—and that’s where a knowledgeable lawyer becomes essential.

Our attorney helps clients understand how the Iowa child support formula applies to their specific circumstances and ensures the information used in calculations is accurate and fair.

Key factors considered in Iowa child support calculations include:

• Each parent’s gross monthly income.
• The number of children involved.
• The amount of parenting time each parent has.
• Health insurance premiums for the child.
• Childcare expenses related to work or education.
• Prior support obligations for other children.

Our role is to help you present all relevant financial data clearly and accurately. Whether you are paying or receiving support, we will advocate for a result that aligns with your child’s needs and economic reality.

What Happens If a Parent Is Unemployed or Underemployed?

One of the more challenging aspects of child support cases arises when a parent is not working—or not earning what they could be. In some cases, unemployment is due to factors outside the parent’s control, such as layoffs or health issues. In others, a parent may be voluntarily earning less to avoid paying support or to reduce their obligation.

Iowa courts carefully examine each situation to determine whether to calculate support based on actual or imputed income, which is what the parent could earn based on education, experience, and job opportunities. If you are concerned that the other parent is not being honest about their finances—or if you’re facing a hardship that affects your ability to pay—it’s critical to work with a lawyer who can present your case clearly and effectively.

We help clients:

• Gather documentation of income, job history, and earning capacity.
• Respond to claims of underemployment or hidden income.
• Present evidence of legitimate hardships, such as disability or job loss.

We believe every child deserves fair support and that both parents deserve to be treated justly under the law.

Can Iowa Parents Agree on a Child Support Amount Outside the Guidelines?

Parents can agree on many issues in a family law case, but Iowa law treats child support differently. Because child support is viewed as a right of the child, parents cannot waive or dramatically alter the guideline amount without court approval.

Even if both parties agree to a lower or higher amount, a judge must still determine that the arrangement serves the child’s best interests.

That doesn’t mean you’re without options. With the help of a lawyer, you may be able to present justifiable reasons for deviating from the guideline calculation. These might include special medical needs, educational costs, or extended parenting time that shifts the financial burden.

We can help you:

• Draft proposed support agreements.
• Document the reasons for any deviations.
• Seek court approval for fair and appropriate arrangements.

Whether you are seeking support or agreeing to pay it, our attorney ensures the agreement protects your child and complies with Iowa law.

What If My Financial Situation Changes?

Child support orders are based on the financial situation when the order is entered, but life doesn’t always stay the same. A job change, medical emergency, or shift in parenting time can make the original order unworkable. Iowa law allows for modifications to child support orders when there has been a substantial change in circumstances.

You may qualify for a modification if:

• Your income has increased or decreased significantly.
• The other parent’s financial situation has changed.
• Your child’s needs have evolved, such as new medical or educational expenses.
• Your parenting time has changed in a meaningful way.

Modifications can be temporary or permanent and must be requested through the court. Our Des Moines child support attorney helps clients assess their eligibility for a modification and guides them through the legal process to request or oppose changes.

What Happens If a Parent Fails to Pay Child Support in Iowa?

When child support isn’t paid on time or in full, it can create severe hardship for the parent receiving it—and for the child. Unfortunately, enforcing a support order can be stressful, especially when emotions run high or communication between parents has broken down. You should never have to shoulder the financial burden alone.

Iowa offers several enforcement tools, including:

• Wage garnishment.
• Seizure of tax refunds or bank accounts.
• License suspensions (driver’s, professional, or recreational).
• Contempt of court proceedings, which can result in fines or jail time.

At Feitelson Law Firm, we help parents enforce child support orders efficiently and lawfully. We also represent parents behind payments and want to address the issue before enforcement actions escalate.

If you are owed support or are struggling to meet an obligation, contact us to discuss your options. We will work with you to find a solution that protects your child and minimizes long-term consequences.

How Can a Des Moines Child Support Lawyer Help?

Trying to handle child support issues on your own can be risky, especially if your case involves disputed income, changes in financial circumstances, or enforcement challenges. An experienced child support lawyer in Des Moines provides more than just legal guidance—they offer peace of mind that your rights are protected and your child’s needs are prioritized.

Our attorney can help you:

• Understand the Iowa child support guidelines.
• Prepare accurate income and expense documentation.
• Negotiate fair support agreements.
• Request or contest modifications.
• Enforce unpaid support through the court.

Every case is different. Whether establishing child support for the first time or addressing problems with an existing order, we help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

We Also Focus on the Following Areas:

• Adoptions
• Child Custody 
• Child Support Enforcement
• Fathers’ Rights
• Paternity
• Divorce
• Domestic Violence
• Modification of Child Support or Modification of Custody
• Prenuptial Agreements
• Spousal Support

Let Us Help You Protect Your Child’s Future: Contact Feitelson Law Firm Today

Child support is more than a legal obligation—it’s a commitment to your child’s well-being and future. At Feitelson Law Firm, we are proud to help Iowa parents navigate this process with honesty, clarity, and compassion. No matter your role in the case, we will advocate for a fair outcome that supports your child and respects your rights.

Contact our Des Moines child support lawyer today to schedule a consultation. We’ll answer your questions, review your financial situation, and help you move forward with the legal support you need to protect your family.