Florida calculates child support using an income shares model, which starts with the combined net income of both parents and applies a schedule to determine the baseline support obligation. From that baseline, costs for health insurance and childcare are added and allocated proportionally between the parents. The number of overnights each parent has with the child also affects the final calculation, with substantial time-sharing arrangements reducing the support obligation of the higher-earning parent. For Hollywood families, this formula applies whether the parents are divorcing or have never been married.
Child support orders are not permanently fixed. Either parent can seek a modification if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, a change in the child's needs, or a change in the time-sharing arrangement. The court requires the requesting party to demonstrate that the change is substantial and continuing, not temporary. A family law attorney in Hollywood advises clients on whether their change in circumstances meets the legal threshold and what documentation is needed to support a modification request filed with the Broward County family court.
