Understanding Child Support in Mississippi

Child support in Mississippi is governed by state law and calculated using income-based guidelines. The goal is simple: ensure children receive consistent financial support that reflects both parents’ ability to contribute.

Support obligations typically cover essentials such as food, housing, clothing, medical care, and education. Courts may also consider additional expenses like daycare or health insurance premiums.

Mississippi’s statutory percentages for noncustodial parents are based on adjusted gross income (AGI):

• 1 child – 14% of AGI
• 2 children – 20% of AGI
• 3 children – 22% of AGI
• 4 children – 24% of AGI
• 5 or more – 26% of AGI

Courts can deviate from these guidelines if the child has special needs, if one parent earns significantly more than the other, or if unique expenses are involved.

Our attorneys explain how the formula applies to your situation, identify income sources that should or should not count toward AGI, and make sure any order accurately reflects your family’s financial reality.

Establishing Child Support Orders

When parents separate or divorce, the court must enter a child support order to ensure the child’s needs are met. We represent custodial and noncustodial parents through every stage of this process, collecting financial disclosures, confirming employment, and presenting clear evidence of income and expenses.

We also handle paternity actions, which are required to establish child support rights when parents were never married. Once paternity is confirmed, support obligations can be set and enforced just like any other case.

Modifying Child Support

Child support isn’t static. Mississippi law allows modifications when there’s a material change in circumstances, such as:

• A substantial change in either parent’s income
• Loss of employment or new job opportunities
• Remarriage or additional dependents
• Changes in the child’s medical, educational, or care needs
• Extended time spent with each parent that alters living costs

Our firm helps parents petition for fair modifications or contest changes that are not justified. We prepare clear financial documentation and work to resolve disputes efficiently, whether through negotiation or hearing.

Enforcing Child Support Orders

When support payments are missed or delayed, our attorneys act quickly to enforce court orders. Mississippi law provides several enforcement mechanisms, including:

• Wage garnishment or income withholding
• Contempt proceedings and court sanctions
• Interception of tax refunds or lottery winnings
• Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses
• Liens against property or bank accounts

We help clients collect overdue support while minimizing additional conflict, always keeping the child’s needs and long-term stability at the forefront.

Resolving Support Issues Through Mediation or Court

Many support disputes can be resolved outside of court through mediation or negotiated agreements. We represent clients in both informal discussions and formal proceedings, ensuring all calculations, documentation, and future contingencies are addressed.

If trial becomes necessary, our firm’s litigation experience in DeSoto County and surrounding Chancery Courts ensures your case is presented clearly and effectively.

Coordinating Child Support and Custody

Child support and custody often go hand in hand. Our attorneys coordinate both issues strategically to prevent inconsistent outcomes. We also help parents update estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations, after custody or support orders are finalized, ensuring long-term protection for their children.

Call for a Consultation: (662) 371-6580

Child support issues can have far-reaching consequences.

At Stroud, Flechas & Dalton, we help parents reach fair outcomes, enforce orders, and plan for the future. Call (662) 371-6580 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a Southaven child support attorney.