When parents establish a child support order for the first time, they want to know exactly what to expect. Parents often ask how long it takes to establish a support order after a case begins. Of course, no two cases are alike. However, it’s still helpful to have a general idea about how long it takes to establish a child support order in Maryland.
How long does it take to establish a child support order in Maryland?
According to the Maryland Department of Human Services, it takes 90-180 days from the date of the initial filing to establish a child support order for the first time. There are some factors that may influence the amount of time that it takes to start the order, including:
- Whether the parents agree on the support amount based on the relevant factors
- Having correct information about a parent’s income, including bonuses and self-employment
- Whether a parent lives in a different state
- Local court procedures, including pretrial hearings
- Whether an income withholding order is needed and the time involved in processing it
- The number of cases currently filed with the court and the wait time for court dates
A Maryland court has the option to date a child support award back to the day that a parent first files the case. The best plan for both parties is to cooperate with court hearings and requests for information. However, each party also has the right to fully advocate for his or her rights under the law. Responding promptly to notices and attending court hearings ensures that each parent has the opportunity to present information to the court that may be relevant in determining an accurate child support award.
Determining the property amount of child support in Maryland
There are a lot of factors that play into determining a child support award. The number of children that are a part of the order, the income of the parents, and the specific needs of the child can all play a role. Gathering evidence and presenting it to the court can help parents efficiently establish an appropriate child support order on behalf of their children, and an attorney can help with this process.