Fadem & Associates, APC is a Certified Family Law Specialist

Our Law Firm Is Dedicated To Defending Your Rights

Unexpected life changes often bring up questions you never thought you’d have to ask—specifically, how to maintain your children’s stability after separation. Choosing the right legal partner to amplify your voice during this transition is one of the most significant decisions you will make for your family’s financial well-being. 

In California, the law is built on the principle that both parents are mutually responsible for the financial support of their children. To ensure fairness and consistency, the state uses a complex mathematical formula known as the Statewide Uniform Guideline.

While the formula is standardized, the “inputs” used to calculate the support amount are often subject to intense dispute. Key factors include:

  • Gross Income: This includes wages, bonuses, commissions, RSUs, ESPPs, and other income available for support.
  • Timeshare: The precise percentage of primary physical responsibility each parent has.
  • Tax Deductions: Health insurance premiums, mandatory retirement contributions, and property taxes.
  • Hardships: Deductions for supporting children from other relationships or extraordinary medical expenses.

While some cases are straightforward, many require a sophisticated legal eye to ensure the calculation is truly “fair.” We provide vital advocacy in complex situations such as:

  • High-Income Families: When a parent’s income exceeds standard charts, “high-earner” exceptions may apply.
  • Hidden Assets & Self-Employment: We excel at identifying “phantom” income or lifestyle-based income that may not appear on a standard W-2.
  • Modifications: If your financial circumstances or custody arrangements change, we help you petition the court to adjust support orders accordingly.

Generally, the legal duty to provide child support continues until the child:

  • 1
    Turns 18 years old.
  • 2
    Graduates high school (if they are still a full-time student and live with a parent, support continues until graduation or age 19, whichever comes first).

Note on Adult Children: California law also mandates that parents support an incapacitated adult child of any age who cannot earn a living and lacks sufficient means to support themselves.

Your issue may be time sensitive, please contact our Law Firm to set-up your Initial Consultation.

Please read the FAQs’ prior to your Initial Consultation.

We practice in all California Counties. In addition, Our Attorneys represents clients throughout California, the United States, and foreign countries with regard to Hague Matters.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

Professional and Skilled. Great Law Office! Mr. BJ Fadem is a knowledgeable and skilled attorney with great experience. Thank you!
Larry

Mr Fadem is extremely knowledgeable of the laws. Felt he was very in tuned to my needs and fought those. Would definitely would use again. HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Sharon

I have worked with Mr. Fadem on many occasions and he is as intelligent, professional, and dedicated as they come. His knowledge of family law is outstanding and I refer him to anyone who needs a specialized and highly skilled family law attorney.

Emily

The reason I return time and time again is knowledgeable employees and the respect I am treated with. I also think that the noncondensending matter in which I was treated was a prime factor.

Claude