Under Guam law, both parents are responsible for supporting their child and either can
file an action to establish "child support".
Parents can either retain a private attorney to pursue support or request the services of the
Child Support Division of the Attorney General's Office.
The amount of support is based on a formula established by the Guam Child Support guidelines. (To review these guidelines, simply google "Guam Child Support Guidelines"). There are two sets of formulas: the first set is used when one parent has primary physical custody and the other is used when the parties equally share physical custody. Even in cases where parents equally share physical custody, child support will be ordered if there is a disparity between the parents' income. Because child support is a right of the child and not the parent, parents cannot waive child support. A judge will not grant either a divorce or a judgment for custody without a provision for child support.
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How much will a child support case cost?
This is very difficult to predict. The complexity of each case can differ significantly. You will have to make an initial deposit of $1,500 before any legal work begins. I bill against this deposit at the rate of $225 per hour for any time I spend on your case. If the $1,500 is expended, other arrangements will need to be made for the payment of future services. You may wish to explore the possibility of having the Child Support Division of the Guam Attorney General's Office represent you for child support. Their services are free. They can be contacted at 475-3360. Their offices are located on the 7th floor of the ITC Building in Tamuning, at the intersection of Marine Corps Drive and Chalan San Antonio.
How can I get started with my child support case?
Simply click on the "Child Support Worksheet" button and complete the form. It is important that you fill the worksheet out completely. Once you have completed the worksheet, call my office at 472-8472 and set up an appointment for a consultation. The consultation fee is $75 for up to 30 minutes. Should you retain my services, the consultation fee will be credited toward the child support legal fee. Be sure to bring the worksheet with you. Without a worksheet, I will not be able to meet with you. >Click here to get started with a worksheet
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This explanation sheet is provided for general information only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. You should discuss the specifics of your situation with a reputable attorney prior to taking any legal action. Neither this site nor anyone associated with this site shall be held liable for the use of the information contained in this document or for any decisions made based on the information provided herein.
