How We Get ZERO CHILD SUPPORT for Our Clients | Santa Clarita Divorce

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How We Get ZERO CHILD SUPPORT for Our Clients: Santa Clarita Divorce

if you don’t want child support as part of your amicable divorce that’s not a problem through the non-guideline order where we can request zero even though it’s mandatory we can get you zero child support

Yes — zero child support can be ordered. Here’s how that works.

Many people assume child support is automatic and cannot be altered. In reality, parents who are on the same page can ask the court to enter a non-guideline child support order that results in zero payments. The court has the authority to depart from the standard guideline formula when both parties agree and the arrangement is shown to be in the child’s best interest.

Guideline vs non-guideline child support

Guideline child support is the formula the court uses by default. It looks at income, custody time, and other factors to calculate a presumptive monthly amount.

Non-guideline child support is any order that deviates from that formula. A non-guideline order can be higher, lower, or even zero if the parents present an agreement and evidence that the deviation is appropriate.

When asking for zero support makes sense

  • Parents have an amicable relationship and trust each other to follow a written agreement.
  • Custody is shared nearly equally and both parents cover expenses directly.
  • The child has independent income or benefits that cover their needs.
  • One parent provides significant support in other ways, such as housing, medical coverage, tuition or childcare.
  • Both parents want a clean, simple arrangement that avoids monthly transfers.

How the process typically works

  1. Full financial disclosure. Courts expect both sides to show incomes, expenses, and any assets affecting the child’s support needs.
  2. Detailed written agreement. The agreement should spell out who pays for what: housing, health insurance, medical bills, school, extracurriculars and other child-related costs.
  3. Request a non-guideline order. The parties ask the court to use a non-guideline calculation and enter an order for zero support based on the written agreement and facts presented.
  4. Show it is in the child’s best interest. The court will consider whether a zero order serves the child, not just the parents. Documentation and credible testimony help.
  5. Obtain court approval. If the judge is satisfied, the zero support provision is incorporated into the final order or judgment.

Protections and clauses you should include

  • Detailed cost-sharing schedule. Specify who pays for health insurance, uncovered medical expenses, school tuition, extracurriculars and travel.
  • Modification clause. Allow for future changes if circumstances change — for example, job loss, major income shift, or a child’s increased needs.
  • Enforcement and dispute resolution. Include a process for resolving disagreements to avoid court fights later.
  • Tax considerations. Clarify which parent claims tax exemptions or credits, and how tax benefits will be handled.
  • Duration and triggers. State how long the zero support arrangement lasts and what events trigger a review or automatic reinstatement of guideline support.

Risks to be aware of

  • A zero order can be revisited if circumstances change. Courts may modify support when one parent petitions later.
  • Informal promises without a solid written order are risky. Verbal agreements offer little protection.
  • If the arrangement proves inadequate for the child, a parent or guardian ad litem could challenge it.
  • Sometimes third parties, like state agencies, will object if public benefits are involved.

Practical tips for success

  • Document everything. The more transparent the finances and the clearer the agreement, the more likely the court will approve a non-guideline order.
  • Work with an attorney who knows local practice in Santa Clarita and the surrounding courts.
  • Consider adding temporary provisions that review the arrangement after a set time to give both sides certainty.
  • Think beyond monthly payments. Cover health, education and extraordinary expenses explicitly.

Final thoughts

Requesting zero child support is a realistic option for couples who can present a fair, well-documented plan that serves the child’s interests. A non-guideline order gives flexibility, but it must be handled carefully. Clear agreements, honest disclosures, and proper legal drafting protect both parents and, most importantly, the child.

If you are considering this route, make sure your agreement is comprehensive and court-ready so the zero support arrangement holds up over time.

How to get NO CHILD SUPPORT when there SHOULD BE | Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to get NO CHILD SUPPORT when there SHOULD BE : Santa Clarita Divorce

When a child support calculation shows that one parent should pay, it is still possible to have no child support ordered — but only if the court is given the right documentation and findings. A commonly used tool in California family law is the FL-342A non-guideline order. Properly prepared and attached to your judgment, that form explains why the parties are deviating from the guideline amount and asks the judge to make a non-guideline finding.

If you don’t want there to be child support in your official divorce order but the child calculation says there should be attach the FL 342-a non-guideline order

What is the FL-342A non-guideline order?

The FL-342A is a court form used to document a request for a non-guideline child support order. When the statewide child support calculator produces a number, California courts presume the guideline amount is appropriate. To depart from that presumption, the court needs written findings explaining the reason for the deviation. The FL-342A provides a place to record those findings and the factual basis for the departure.

When can you realistically get no child support?

  • When both parents agree to a different financial arrangement that the court finds supports the child’s best interests.
  • When financial circumstances and shared responsibility make the guideline amount unnecessary or unfair.
  • When other support mechanisms exist, such as an unequal division of assets, major ongoing expenses covered by one parent, or a parenting schedule that effectively equalizes costs.
  • When the court is convinced that deviation from the guideline is supported by credible evidence and written findings.

How to request no child support using FL-342A

  1. Run the child support calculation and include the calculation worksheet in the court packet so the baseline guideline number is on record.
  2. Prepare the FL-342A non-guideline findings form. Be specific: list the facts, financial numbers, parenting time details, and any agreements between the parties that justify no support.
  3. Attach supporting documentation: income declarations, expense lists, custody schedule, and any agreements about property division or expense sharing.
  4. Include the FL-342A with the proposed judgment or stipulated judgment so the judge can review it when signing the final order.
  5. Be prepared to present the evidence and answer the judge’s questions at the final hearing. Courts expect clear reasons for departing from the guideline.

What judges look for in a non-guideline order

  • Detailed findings explaining why the guideline amount is inappropriate.
  • Credible supporting facts such as incomes, extraordinary expenses, health needs of the child, or equal sharing of costs.
  • Evidence of agreement when the deviation follows a mutual settlement between the parties.
  • Best interests of the child — the court must be satisfied the child’s needs will be met despite the deviation.

Risks and important considerations

  • Non-guideline orders are scrutinized. If the court finds the written findings inadequate, it may require the guideline amount instead or ask for additional evidence.
  • A non-guideline agreement can still be modified later if circumstances change. The absence of a guideline figure today does not prevent future modifications.
  • Enforcement and public benefits: if a parent receives public benefits, agencies may challenge non-guideline arrangements.
  • Tax and practical consequences: make sure any agreement about expenses, health insurance, and tax exemptions is documented to avoid disputes.
  • Legal advice is recommended. Courts vary in how readily they accept non-guideline deviations and an attorney or experienced mediator can help draft findings that hold up.

Practical drafting tips

  • Be specific rather than vague. Replace general statements with numbers and examples: monthly incomes, who pays what expense, and how parenting time is split.
  • Address future changes. Add review or modification triggers so both parties know when and how support can be revisited.
  • Include a clear statement that the parties request a non-guideline order and attach the relevant calculation showing the guideline amount for context.
  • List any offsets or tradeoffs, such as one parent keeping a pension, receiving more equity in the house, or taking on major ongoing expenses like health care.

Final thoughts

Getting no child support when the calculator shows there should be it is possible, but it requires careful documentation, honest disclosure of finances, and clear findings that justify the deviation. The FL-342A non-guideline order is the tool courts expect to see when parties ask for something other than the guideline amount. Thoughtful preparation and legal guidance will improve the chances that the request is accepted and that the resulting order is durable and enforceable.

How to Get No Child Support When There Should Be: Santa Clarita Divorce | Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to Get No Child Support When There Should Be: Santa Clarita Divorce

If you do not want child support to appear in your official divorce order even though the child support calculation says there should be, attach the FL 342-a non-guideline order.

What that sentence means in plain language

The guideline child support calculation produces a presumptive number based on income, custody time, and other factors. Courts start with that number. But parties can agree, or a judge can order, a deviation from the guideline when there are legitimate reasons. A written non-guideline order is the mechanism that documents and explains that deviation so it becomes part of the official court order.

When a non-guideline order makes sense

  • Parents mutually agree that the guideline number is not appropriate because of special circumstances.
  • There are substantial shared parenting hours that change the fairness of the guideline formula.
  • One parent is already providing significant financial support or paying major child expenses directly.
  • There are unusual expenses, debts, or income sources that the guideline model does not capture.

Steps to use a non-guideline order (practical checklist)

  1. Run the guideline calculation so the court record shows what the formula produces and why a deviation is being requested.
  2. Prepare the FL 342-a non-guideline order (or the local equivalent). Clearly state that the parties request a deviation from the guideline amount and attach the calculation worksheet.
  3. Explain the reasons for the deviation in writing. Provide facts and documentation: parenting time schedules, expense receipts, proof of payments, and any other relevant financial information.
  4. Submit the order to the court as part of your dissolution paperwork. If both parties agree, get the judge to sign the stipulated order. If not agreed, be prepared to present your reasons at a hearing.
  5. Include modification and enforcement language so it is clear how future changes are handled and how the order will be enforced if necessary.

What to include in the non-guideline order

  • A clear statement that the parties are deviating from the guideline child support calculation.
  • The exact child support amount (often zero) or a description of how support will be handled.
  • Specific factual reasons for the deviation (shared expenses, equal parenting time, current direct support, special needs, etc.).
  • Reference to the attached guideline calculation worksheet so the court file shows both the guideline number and the deviation.
  • Start and end dates, review triggers, and modification language.

Caveats and important tips

  • The court has discretion. A judge will evaluate whether the deviation is in the best interest of the child and supported by facts.
  • An agreed order signed by both parties carries more weight than an unsupported request for deviation.
  • Documentation is everything. Keep copies of payments and expense records that justify the non-guideline arrangement.
  • Confirm form names and filing procedures with your local court clerk or an attorney. Local practices and form numbers can vary.
  • Consider the long-term implications: tax consequences, retirement, health insurance, and future modification needs.

Sample clause (illustrative)

The parties acknowledge that the guideline child support calculation (attached) results in a child support obligation. For the reasons stated in the attached declaration (shared parenting time, direct payment of major expenses, and financial parity), the parties request that child support be set at zero dollars. This non-guideline order is intended to deviate from the guideline calculation and is agreed to by both parties.

Final thoughts

Attaching a properly drafted non-guideline order is the straightforward way to document a zero or different child support arrangement when the guideline calculation would otherwise require payment. Make sure the deviation is well-documented, reasonable, and presented to the court in the correct form so the agreement becomes an enforceable part of the divorce order.

Next step

Talk with a family law attorney or the local court clerk to confirm the exact form name and filing steps for your county before filing. Accurate paperwork and clear justification greatly increase the chance the court will approve a non-guideline arrangement.

How To Complete Form FL 342 for a No Child Support Order in California | Los Angeles Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How To Complete Form FL 342 for a No Child Support Order in California

When couples in California agree that they do not want an official child support order as part of their divorce—even when child support might ordinarily be required—there is a specific and straightforward way to handle this legally. Understanding how to properly complete Form FL 342 and the related documents is key to submitting your judgment correctly and avoiding court rejections.

This guide breaks down the process step-by-step, showing you how to submit a no child support order while still complying with California’s legal requirements. It also explains how to use the DISOMaster, the essential child support calculation form you must attach to your judgment package. Whether you’re finalizing an amicable divorce or just want to understand the paperwork better, this article will help you navigate the process smoothly.

Starting with the Judgment Submission: Form FL-180

Before diving into Form FL 342, you first need to understand the role of Form FL-180, which acts as the cover sheet to your divorce judgment. When you submit your judgment, you will indicate on FL-180 that you are attaching Form FL 342, the child support order.

On FL-180, simply mark the box that shows you are attaching Form FL 342. This alerts the court that your judgment package includes the child support order, even if that order requests no child support.

Preparing Form FL 342 for No Child Support

Form FL 342 is the official child support order form. Even if you and your spouse agree that no child support will be paid, you still must complete this form properly to avoid rejection by the court. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Mark Attachment and Calculation: Indicate that Form FL 342 is an attachment to Form FL-180. You must attach a printout of the child support calculation (from the DISOMaster) with your judgment. Without this, the court will likely reject your submission.
  2. Leave Payment Boxes Blank: Normally, you would specify who pays child support to whom. In this case, leave those boxes unchecked because no child support will be paid.
  3. Set a Start Date: Don’t leave the start date blank. For example, if you expect the judgment to be approved in April, set the start date as April 1.
  4. List Children and Amounts: Enter each child’s name, date of birth, and put “0” as the amount of child support. Instead of specifying a paying party, write “No child support due to either party.”

If you have multiple children, repeat the above step for each one.

Filling Out Mandatory Sections on Page Two

Although some parts of Form FL 342 are optional, certain sections are mandatory and often overlooked. These include:

  • How you want parental responsibility divided (usually 50/50 in amicable cases)
  • Marking the “Non-Guideline Order” box to indicate that you are requesting a deviation from the standard child support guidelines

Checking the “Non-Guideline Order” box is crucial because it signals that you are submitting a child support order where the standard guidelines are not being followed—specifically, that no child support will be paid.

The Secret Sauce: Form FL 342-A (Non-Guideline Child Support Order)

To finalize your request for no child support, you must also complete and attach Form FL 342-A, the Non-Guideline Child Support Order. This form explains why the court should approve a zero child support amount despite the calculation showing otherwise.

Here’s how to complete FL 342-A:

  1. Mark it as an attachment to both Form FL 342 and the judgment (FL-180).
  2. Indicate that the child support agreed upon by the parties is below the statewide child support guidelines.
  3. State the child support amount calculated under the guidelines (from the DISOMaster report). For example, if the calculated amount is $1,712 per month, include that figure.
  4. Confirm that both parties have been fully informed of their rights concerning child support.
  5. Specify who would pay the guideline amount (typically the higher-earning parent).
  6. Check the box indicating that the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that rebuttal factors exist, resulting in a decrease in child support.
  7. State the revised child support amount is zero.
  8. Mark that this order remains in effect until further court order.

This form contains updated legal language that makes it easier to request no child support when both parties agree. Previously, complicated language was required, but now the form standardizes the process.

Understanding the DISOMaster Child Support Calculation

The DISOMaster is the mandatory computer-generated child support calculation that courts require when reviewing child support orders. It calculates the guideline amount based on income, custody arrangements, and other factors.

Even if you want no child support, you must run this calculation and attach the report to your judgment package. The court needs to see what the standard guideline amount would be before approving a deviation.

Here’s a quick overview of what a DISOMaster report includes:

  • Income details for both parents
  • Calculated child support amount based on statewide guidelines
  • Identification of the paying party (usually the higher earner)
  • Breakdown of healthcare and other expenses

After attaching this, you explain in Form FL 342-A why you are requesting a zero amount despite the calculation.

Where to Get Free DISOMaster Calculations

Many people ask where they can get a DISOMaster calculation done without paying a fee. The California child support website offers free access to the DISOMaster program for self-represented parties. This resource makes it easy to generate the required report yourself.

Using this tool, you can prepare your child support calculation and attach it to your judgment package, ensuring you meet all legal requirements.

Conclusion

Requesting no child support when child support would normally be required is simpler than it seems—if you know which forms to complete and how to fill them out. The key steps are:

  • Attach Form FL 342 with zero child support amounts listed and no paying party indicated
  • Mark the “Non-Guideline Order” box on FL 342
  • Complete and attach Form FL 342-A explaining the deviation from guideline support
  • Run and attach the DISOMaster child support calculation report

Following this process ensures your judgment package will be accepted by the court and your agreement for no child support will be legally recognized. If you and your spouse are in agreement and want to avoid confusion or rejection, this method is your best path forward.

For more detailed assistance and resources on amicable divorces in California, you can visit Divorce661.com, where full-service divorce support is available.

 

How to Get No Child Support When There Should Be: A Guide for Santa Clarita Divorces | Los Angeles Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to Get No Child Support When There Should Be: A Guide for Santa Clarita Divorces

When navigating the complexities of divorce, one of the most sensitive and often contentious issues is child support. Many parents want to ensure their children are cared for financially, but there are situations where the standard child support calculation might not reflect the true circumstances or intentions of the parties involved. In some cases, individuals seek to have no child support ordered officially, even when the child support guidelines suggest otherwise.

In this article, we’ll explore how you can legally and effectively achieve a no-child-support order in your divorce decree, even if the child support calculations indicate that support should be paid. The information shared here is inspired by the practical advice of Tim Blankenship from Divorce661, who specializes in divorce law and offers clear guidance for Santa Clarita residents. Whether you are a parent, a soon-to-be divorcee, or simply interested in understanding how child support orders can be adjusted, this article will provide you with valuable insights and solutions.

Understanding Child Support Calculations

Child support calculations are typically based on a formula that considers several factors, including the income of both parents, the amount of time each parent spends with the child, and other relevant expenses. In California, for example, the guideline formula aims to ensure that the child’s financial needs are met fairly and proportionately.

However, the results of these formulas are not always set in stone. The court has the discretion to deviate from the standard guideline amount when appropriate. This flexibility allows parents to negotiate and agree on arrangements that better suit their unique circumstances.

So, what happens when the calculation says child support should be paid, but both parents agree—or one parent insists—that no child support should be ordered? This is where the concept of a non-guideline order comes into play.

What Is a Non-Guideline Child Support Order?

A non-guideline child support order is a legal document that deviates from the usual child support calculations. Instead of strictly following the formula, the court or the parties involved agree to a different arrangement. This could mean ordering no child support, ordering a reduced amount, or specifying a unique payment structure that does not fit into the standard formula.

Using a non-guideline order is especially useful in cases where the standard child support calculation does not fairly represent the financial or custodial realities of the family. For example, if both parents share equal custody and the child’s expenses are already being split evenly, ordering child support might be unnecessary or even counterproductive.

The Role of FL 342-A (Non-Guideline Child Support Order)

To implement a non-guideline order, the form FL 342-A is used. This form is officially titled the Non-Guideline Child Support Order. Attaching this form to your divorce paperwork is a critical step if you want to have no child support ordered, despite what the calculation shows.

FL 342-A allows you to outline the reasons why the standard calculation should not apply and specify the agreed-upon child support arrangement. This form must be submitted alongside your divorce or custody paperwork and approved by the court to become part of the official court order.

How to Use FL 342-A to Avoid Child Support Payments

If your goal is to have no child support ordered, here’s a practical approach to using FL 342-A effectively:

  1. Understand the Child Support Calculation: Before you decide to pursue a non-guideline order, make sure you understand how the child support is calculated in your case. Knowing the numbers and the reasons behind the calculation will help you build a strong case.
  2. Discuss with the Other Parent: Communication and agreement between both parents are crucial. If both parties agree that no child support should be ordered, this will greatly increase the likelihood of the court approving the non-guideline order.
  3. Complete and Attach FL 342-A: Fill out the FL 342-A form accurately and attach it to your official divorce or custody paperwork. The form will require you to provide the justification for the non-guideline order.
  4. Present Your Case in Court: When your case is heard, be prepared to explain why the standard child support calculation is not appropriate. The court will consider the best interest of the child and the fairness of the arrangement.
  5. Obtain Court Approval: If the court agrees with the reasoning, the no-child-support order will be incorporated into your final divorce decree or custody order.

Common Reasons for Non-Guideline Child Support Orders

Courts may approve a non-guideline order for various reasons, including but not limited to:

  • Shared custody arrangements where both parents incur similar expenses.
  • Parents with similar incomes and financial responsibilities.
  • Situations where one parent already provides for all the child’s needs directly.
  • Agreements that include other forms of financial support or benefits in lieu of child support payments.

Each case is unique, and the court’s overriding concern is always the child’s best interest. Therefore, presenting a clear, reasonable explanation alongside the FL 342-A form is essential.

Why Might Parents Want to Avoid Child Support Orders?

While child support is designed to protect the financial well-being of children, there are cases where parents prefer to avoid formal child support orders. Some common reasons include:

  • Mutual Agreement: Parents who have a cooperative relationship may prefer to handle child-related expenses informally without involving the court.
  • Complex Financial Situations: When income fluctuates significantly or when parents have alternative arrangements, a standard formula may not fit well.
  • Privacy Concerns: Some parents wish to keep financial matters private and avoid court-enforced payments.
  • Cost and Time: Avoiding ongoing child support enforcement can reduce legal costs and administrative burdens.

However, it’s important to remember that avoiding a child support order must be done legally and with the court’s approval to ensure the child’s needs are still met adequately.

Potential Risks and Considerations

Choosing a non-guideline order to avoid child support payments is not without risks. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

  • Child’s Best Interest: Courts prioritize the child’s welfare above all else. If the non-guideline order does not adequately provide for the child, the court may reject it.
  • Enforcement Issues: Without a formal child support order, enforcing financial contributions can be difficult if disagreements arise later.
  • Changes in Circumstances: If financial situations change, a non-guideline order may need to be revisited to ensure fairness and adequacy.
  • Legal Advice Recommended: Given the complexities, consulting with a family law attorney experienced in Santa Clarita divorce cases is highly advisable.

Conclusion: Navigating Child Support with Confidence

Getting no child support ordered when the calculation says there should be is not impossible, but it requires careful planning, clear communication, and the proper legal documentation. The key is to attach the FL 342-A non-guideline child support order form to your divorce or custody paperwork, providing a strong justification for why the court should deviate from the standard child support formula.

By understanding the child support guidelines, working collaboratively with the other parent, and presenting your case thoughtfully, you can achieve a fair and legally binding arrangement that reflects your family’s unique situation. Remember, the child’s best interest remains the top priority, so any agreement must ensure their needs continue to be met.

If you are going through a divorce or child custody process in Santa Clarita and want to explore your options regarding child support, consider reaching out to a qualified family law professional who can guide you through the process and help you use tools like FL 342-A effectively.

With the right approach, you can navigate the child support system with confidence and secure an outcome that works for you and your family.