Welcome back and thanks for joining us for the wrap up on this chat about the current child support system. As we mentioned in the previous article, a few years ago there was an article published in the Boston Globe where correspondent Ruth Graham investigated the child support system as it exists today, and revealed a few uncomfortable truths. Specifically, the fact that the current system is a model that was created decades ago, when family roles were different. So what can be done to address this problem of an outdated system.

The times have changed, and the systems we use should too.

According to Graham, child support as we know it today made sense when moms were primarily stay-at-home parents and dads were usually the sole breadwinner. But that’s not the case anymore. Many moms are now breadwinners in their own right, and not as many dads have steady employment. Times have changed, so shouldn’t our child support system change to reflect the current reality. Economic stability isn’t what it was in the 70’s, and nor is the job market. So what does that mean for our dated child support system?

Enforcement shouldn’t be more important than involvement

One of the issues that Graham points out with the current system, is the fact that there is a huge emphasis on enforcing child support, but very little time and effort spent promoting parental involvement. Why is that? And is that really the best system for our kids? Graham says she doesn’t think so. And the stats support her theory.

The numbers show that most states fail to support parental involvement

According to the National Parents Organization’s Shared Parenting Report Card, which grades states on their child custody statutes and how well they promote shared parenting after divorce or separation (in the form of joint custody or generous visitation schedules for noncustodial parents). With almost no exceptions, all 50 states scored very poorly, with the cumulative grade point average coming in at 1.63 on a 4.0 scale.

Most dads want to do right by their kids.

We’ve talked about the ‘deadbeat dad’ myth before in previous articles, but it’s something Graham addresses in great detail in her article. And no, we’re not suggesting that fathers shouldn’t be held financially responsible for their children – they should. But as Graham noted, there is more to being a good parent than money. And current research reveals that she makes a solid point – the “deadbeat dad” is likely more of a myth than the standard among fathers.

Get the help you need to handle child support matters

As attorneys who are also dedicated parents, we understand how important your children are to you (after all, our kids mean the world to us!) So we get it. And if you need help with figuring out your child support, or modifying your existing child support agreement, call The Kronzek Firm at 866 766 5245. Our hardworking family law attorneys can help you with every part of this process, regardless of what your needs may be, or what your unique situation needs.