Learn More>>Child Support>>Deviation Principles

When deciding how much child support will be paid by the noncustodial parent using the Georgia Child Support Guidelines, adjusted gross income of each parent is central to arriving at what is called a "presumptive" child support obligation. However, there are many other factors that may cause a judge or arbitrator to "deviate" from the "presumptive" child support obligation and award either a higher or lower child support payment.

Certain conditions such as extraordinary expenses that increase the cost of medical care, the cost of rearing the child, or the cost of education are common examples of circumstances that will raise a child support payment award upward above the presumptive amount.

Additionally, abnormally high or low income can affect the child support payment award. The amount of time that the child(ren) will spend with each parent may also affect the child support payment award upward or downward depending on the circumstances.

However, under no circumstances shall a deviation occur in the presumptive amount of the child support award that will seriously impair the ability of the custodial parent to maintain minimally adequate housing, food, and clothing for the child being supported by the order and to provide other basic necessities, as determined by the Court or the jury.