Question:

If a service member claims a step child through their pay , insurance & tax return, but hasn't legally adopted the child, how does child support apply to the situation?

Jim's Reply:

All child support questions are decided at the family court. The magistrate will consider all the circumstances of the situation and apply the laws of that state to determine who will owe what to who. The parties will be ordered to complete financial statements accurately and truthfully and from those reports the judge will usually follow a guideline to determine any child support or alimony orders. Until you get in front of the judge in a family court you're guessing at outcomes because the law can take unexpected turns. If you're contemplating divorce you should consult a divorce attorney in your state.