Her lawyer is asking for more than what the guidelines suggest. I make decent money but I've still got bills and I want to be able to take my kids on vacations and do stuff with them. Feels like I'm being punished for working hard. My lawyer says we can negotiate but I'm exhausted by all this already.
I went through this. The guidelines are there to protect both parents honestly. If her lawyer is trying to push beyond that, it sounds like they're just trying to get more fees out of your case. Stand firm on the numbers. Courts take that seriously.
This is rough but honestly don't let it get personal. Keep everything documented and communicate through lawyers only. Makes the whole process less emotionally draining for everyone including the kids.
I went through something similar. The key is showing the judge you're not trying to skimp on support, you just want it to be fair and based on actual numbers. Stick to the guidelines unless there's a real reason for adjustment. Your lawyer should push back on anything unreasonable.
Lawyers always ask for more than guidelines, that's just negotiation tactics. Document everything you're spending on the kids already - activities, healthcare, school stuff. Shows you're already contributing significantly. Stay calm and let your lawyer handle it.
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Get a family law attorney if you don't have one already. Child support guidelines exist for a reason and her lawyer knows that. You shouldn't be paying above guidelines just because she's pushing. Document everything about your income and expenses. This is serious stuff.
Yeah that's frustrating. I make decent money too but child support shouldn't bankrupt you. Make sure your attorney really explains what you're responsible for vs what she should be covering. Some people think child support means the other parent pays for everything which isn't how it works.