Child Support Services in Birmingham, Alabama

How Is Child Support Determined in Alabama?

When navigating child support cases in Birmingham, it is essential to understand that Alabama applies guidelines from Rule 32 of the Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration. These guidelines ensure consistency and fairness in calculating child support obligations by considering variables unique to each family. Courts in Jefferson County and Birmingham use these rules, but judges can adjust calculations when there are unique factors, such as extraordinary medical costs or special education expenses. 

Payments may be made directly between parents or, more commonly, withheld from the non-custodial parent’s wages and disbursed through the Alabama Child Support Payment Center. This office, serving the Birmingham area, offers payment options such as checks, direct deposit, or debit cards to ensure timely, secure support for local families.

How to File for Child Support in Birmingham

If you are initiating a child support case in Birmingham, understanding the process can help you avoid unnecessary delays. Most cases in Jefferson County begin by filing a Petition for Child Support with the Domestic Relations Court. The court reviews each parent’s financial disclosures and applies Alabama’s guidelines to determine the appropriate support amount. At Shaw Family Law, L.L.C., our child support attorneys in Birmingham help parents organize documents, understand the court’s expectations, and prepare for hearings—ensuring all details comply with both state and local requirements. Our experience with Birmingham courts streamlines the process, supports your position, and reduces your stress during a pivotal time.

Child Support Modification & Enforcement in Birmingham

Life changes can occur unexpectedly, often affecting your ability to pay or receive child support. Birmingham courts allow for child support orders to be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, a substantial increase in medical expenses, or a meaningful raise in income. At Shaw Family Law, L.L.C., our child support attorneys in Birmingham assist parents throughout Jefferson County and the greater Birmingham area by preparing petitions for modification and advocating for adjustments that reflect accurate, up-to-date financial realities. Our legal team is deeply familiar with procedures before the Jefferson County Domestic Relations Court, guiding you through the paperwork and critical steps required for a successful modification. Whether you are seeking an increase or decrease in your child support payment, our goal is to ensure your child’s needs are met under Alabama law and local court policies.

AT WHAT AGE DO YOU STOP PAYING CHILD SUPPORT IN ALABAMA?

In Alabama, child support obligations typically end when a child reaches the age of majority, which is 19. 

However, there are exceptions that every parent should understand:

• If the child is attending college and is not employed, the non-custodial parent may still be required to pay support.
• If the child has severe special needs, the judge can order continued support into adulthood.
• The family court may make exceptions to extend or terminate payments based on the unique facts of a case.

WHAT IS THE DEADBEAT FATHER LAW IN ALABAMA?

The Deadbeat Parents Punishment Act of 1998 makes it a felony for parents who deliberately evade child support obligations. 

Under this law, a parent may face criminal charges if they:

• Travel or move to another state with the intent to avoid paying child support
• Fail to make support payments for over one year
• Accumulate arrears of more than $5,000

Experienced Family Law Advocacy in Birmingham

If you are going through a divorce or have already finalized your divorce and have questions about child support obligations in Alabama, the attorneys at Shaw Family Lawyers are here to help. We help you build a secure future—offering both legal strategy and emotional guidance—to provide financial and emotional stability for your children, protect their quality of life, and help you co-parent constructively. Our collaboration with clients from start to finish ensures matters are handled correctly the first time.