Both parents have an obligation to provide for the financial support of their children to the extent of their ability to do so.  Parental misconduct is irrelevant to the obligation to pay support and will not be considered in the computation of the amount. 

Pennsylvania has adopted Child Support Guidelines, which provide statewide standards for determining the proper amount of child support (23 Pa. CSA 4322; Pa. RCP 1910).  These guidelines utilize such relevant facts as the income of both parents and the number and age of children and apply a percentage of income or set a lump sum which is presumptively the appropriate amount of support.  Whenever a court enters an order establishing or modifying child support, the order must also provide that either one or both parents shall maintain medical insurance benefits for the children.  The court shall also determine each parties' proportionate share of the deductible and any unreimbursed expenses.  The requirement to support one's children continues until emancipation, which in Pennsylvania is the age of 18 or the completion of secondary school, whichever last occurs.

To review your child support obligations, or to review any other Family Law related matter, please contact our office at 412-823-8003 or send an email to Karen Myers