50/50 Custody in Missouri: How it Affects Child Support Payments

Learn how 50/50 custody impacts child support in Missouri—factors affecting payments, court considerations, and tips for parents in equal custody arrangements.

In Missouri, 50/50 custody arrangements are becoming increasingly common as courts recognize the benefits of children having equal time with both parents. However, many parents wonder how this custody split affects child support obligations.

At The Betz Law Firm, we will help you understand how 50/50 custody impacts child support in Missouri, the factors courts consider, and what you should know about this complex issue.

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David was very helpful and respectful all around. He took the time to hear my Son’s concerns and made him feel comfortable sharing these concerns. He was always on time and ready to handle our case, always prepared. I appreciate that, to me it shows that he really does care about the families he’s helping. I highly recommend him if you are considering a GAL for your case.

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I have known David for many years, working on cases and outside of work. He is a fantastic advocate, has high standards, is well respected and sticks to his principles. He gets the struggles parents can face raising kids these days. I really admire his courage and how he fights to make a positive difference in people's lives, especially for his clients.

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The Betz law firm did an amazing and efficient job executing on my non-contested divorce. My ex drug his feet and the law firm kept on him and even was prepared to go forward with a non-response judgement. My ex responded the day before we went for a non-responsive judgement and agreed, finally. The judge signed off within the week and I was notified via email that my divorce was final a few days prior to receiving the email. I never had to go to their office or to court to face my ex. From start to finish, this took 6 months almost to the day. Again, my ex drug his feet, this could have probably gone faster. Thank you Debbye Laskey for keeping the paperwork straight and to Mr. Betz for the legal components.

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mark H.

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Fair Guardian Ad Litem who has walked a tightrope of a custody case

Isaac

I was very impressed with Mr. Betz’s service. He was the GAL for my children. He was very professional, fair-but-caring and advocated tireless for the children’s best interests. He took his time to talk to them about their wishes, giving us sound advice and guided us through an otherwise contentious process. I appreciated his professionalism, ethics and would highly recommend him.

Ann F.

My son and I have worked with David Betz for several years in custody matters concerning my grandson. I have found him to be genuinely concerned with our situation and responsive to our needs. He listens carefully and handles matters promptly. He is realistic in evaluating situations and helps us to arrive at the best possible alternatives. I highly recommend him for family law matters.

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The Wanted Emcees Mitch F.

David was phenomenal in helping me secure protection and safety for myself and my daughter during the divorce and custody case. We ultimately prevailed at the end with 100% custody and a judgement in favor of the petitioner for support, with heavy stipulations in place for visitation. David by your side in the courtroom is a sure fire win. Place your bets on Betz!

Briannica B.

David was super helpful in getting all of my questions answered. He was kind and patient while I explained the situation I was dealing with, and outlined numerous options and avenues that I had as choices. He didn't sugar coat things and was honest where he thought struggles would appear in the case, and talked through best and worst case scenarios. He also was nice enough to offer additional phone calls if more questions came up while choosing how to move forward with the case. I would highly recommend talking to David about your case if you need a family lawyer, as it's obvious that he is kind, and extremely knowledgeable about family law and the complications it can involve.

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10 months later...

I wanted to add, we have been in this case for 22 months and it’s about to wrap up. David has been amazing. My 16 year old daughter had kind of lost her faith in the system and in adults - David really worked with her and helped hold her accountable, but also gave her a voice, great advice, and really won her over. She really trusts him. When she was struggling, she would ask to call David. When I was struggling with her, I would threaten to call David and she would become more agreeable. She really trusts and respects him. Which for me, takes a unique skill set. Not everyone can get an unhappy teen to comply and also still keep their trust and respect. My son loved David too. Both kids looked forward to our apts with David. Which when you are fighting a child support/ custody case and your drained, it’s so nice to have parts of the process be so easy and helpful. And that’s what we got from David and his staff.

David has offered to be available if he can help after the case with questions or getting a teenager in line. They were understanding and more than fair with my payment options. Joel, his assistant- is a joy to talk to and prompt to respond and he chatted with the kids and put them at ease in a very uncomfortable situation. I can’t say enough good things about them.

We drive past their office every day on the way to school and my daughter said she wanted to stop by and take David a Christmas present. That’s pretty impressive for a 16 year old.

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Mark E.

David helped me successfully navigate through a challenging legal scenario, where timely direction and counsel were paramount to a positive outcome. He quickly understood the issues at hand, provided very practical advice, all the while demonstrating his firm understanding of the law. Just as importantly, his advice was grounded in how the practical application of that knowledge would lead to a positive outcome. He was easy to talk with, a focused listener, honest, and it was obvious that he was not out for his own gain. It was nothing short of a positive experience from start to finish!

T M.

I retained David Betz for my divorce and very happy with how things turned out. David and his team went straight to work and kept me updated every step of the way. If you looking for someone to get the job done, then look no further. Thank You David and Joel for all you have done for me!!

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Brian Montgomery J.

Such a great experience working with David. He truly was looking after my child's best interest and that's what it's all about. But he also was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and explained everything so that even my 7 year old could understand. Well done.

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Tony Rulo J.

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Understanding 50/50 Custody

Before diving into child support, it’s essential to understand what 50/50 custody means in Missouri:

50/50 custody, also called joint physical custody, means that children spend approximately equal time with each parent.
This can be structured in various ways, such as alternating weeks, 2-2-3 schedules, or 2-2-5-5 schedules.
50/50 custody is distinct from legal custody, which refers to decision-making authority for the child.

Missouri’s Approach to Child Support in 50/50 Custody Cases

Missouri uses an “income shares” model for calculating child support, which considers parents’ income and the number of overnights each parent has with the child. In 50/50 custody situations:

The basic calculation is still performed using Form 14.
Each parent’s support obligation is calculated based on their proportion of the combined income.
The higher-earning parent typically pays the difference between the two calculated amounts to the lower-earning parent.

However, 50/50 custody can significantly impact the final child support amount due to several factors:

Factors Affecting Child Support in 50/50 Custody Arrangements

Income Disparity
- If parents have similar incomes, child support may be minimal or unnecessary.
- Large income disparities may still result in significant support payments from the higher-earning parent.
Overnight Adjustments
- Missouri’s Form 14 includes an overnight adjustment that can reduce support obligations for parents with significant parenting time.
- In 50/50 custody, both parents qualify for the maximum overnight adjustment.
Shared Expenses
- Courts consider how parents divide expenses like school fees, extracurricular activities, and medical costs.
- Equal sharing of these expenses may reduce the need for additional support payments.
Cost of Living Differences
- If parents live in areas with significantly different living costs, this may be factored into support calculations.
Special Needs of the Child
- Additional expenses related to a child’s needs may impact support amounts, even in 50/50 custody situations.

Court’s Discretion in 50/50 Custody Support Cases

Missouri courts have significant discretion in determining child support for 50/50 custody arrangements. Judges may deviate from the Form 14 calculations if they believe it’s in the child’s best interest. Factors they might consider include:

The ability of each parent to provide for the child’s needs
The child’s standard of living before the divorce or separation
Any significant assets owned by either parent
Tax consequences for each parent

Modifications to Child Support in 50/50 Custody Cases

As with any child support order, parents with 50/50 custody can seek modifications if circumstances change. Grounds for modification may include:

Significant changes in either parent’s income
Changes in the child’s needs or expenses
Alterations to the custody schedule
Remarriage of either parent (if it significantly affects finances)

Advantages and Challenges of 50/50 Custody and Support

Advantages:

Can reduce overall child support payments
Promotes equal parental involvement
It may decrease conflict over financial matters

Challenges:

Requires careful budgeting and communication between parents
It can be complex to calculate and may require legal assistance
This may still result in support payments if incomes are disparate

Tips for Parents in 50/50 Custody Situations

Keep detailed records of expenses and time spent with the child.
Communicate openly with the other parent about financial matters.
Be prepared to provide documentation of income and expenses to the court.
Consider mediation to reach agreements on support and expense sharing.
Consult with a family law attorney to understand your rights and obligations.

Contact Us Today

50/50 custody arrangements in Missouri can significantly impact child support obligations, often reducing or eliminating payments when parents have similar incomes. However, the specific circumstances of each case, including income disparities and shared expenses, play a crucial role in determining support amounts. If you’re considering or currently in 50/50 custody arrangements, contact The Betz Law Firm to understand your rights, obligations, and options regarding child support.

At The Betz Law Firm, we specialize in helping parents navigate the complexities of custody and child support issues.

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Our firm uses experience, good communication, and availability to help families navigate life-changing events.

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