Child Support Attorney in Corvallis

Representing Parents Through Every Stage of Oregon Child Support

Child support matters touch some of the most important decisions in a parent’s life. At Jennifer I. Nash & Nicolas Ortiz, P.C., we represent parents in Corvallis and throughout Benton and Linn Counties in establishing, modifying, and enforcing child support orders. Our client-driven approach means you define the objectives; we provide the legal guidance to pursue them.

With over 40 years of combined legal experience across criminal defense and family law, our attorneys handle each matter with professionalism and focused attention. We’re trial-ready when litigation is necessary and focused on your goals when resolution is the path forward.

If you need a child support lawyer in Corvallis, contact Jennifer I. Nash & Nicolas Ortiz, P.C. at (541) 243-0678 to schedule a consultation.

How Oregon Calculates Child Support

Oregon uses an income shares model under ORS 25.275, which combines both parents’ gross incomes and divides the resulting support obligation proportionally by each parent’s share of that combined income. The guideline amount is presumed just and appropriate, but it can be challenged with evidence showing the presumptive figure is unjust or inappropriate in a particular case.

Several factors shape the final number:

• Parenting time credit: A paying parent with significant overnight parenting time may receive a credit that reduces their obligation.
• Child care costs: Work-related or education-related child care expenses are factored into the calculation.
• Health insurance and cash medical support: The cost of covering the child on a health plan, or a cash medical support contribution when coverage isn’t available, is included.
• Imputed income: A parent who is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed can be assigned potential income based on work history, education, qualifications, and local job opportunities.

How these variables interact matters before you agree to any order. A small difference in how parenting time or income is characterized can meaningfully change the calculation.

Modifying a Child Support Order in Oregon

Circumstances change. Either parent may request a modification when there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant shift in income, a change in parenting time, or a meaningful difference in child care costs. Oregon courts apply this standard in circuit court proceedings.

Separately, the Oregon Child Support Program offers an administrative review process. For child support specifically, a review may be available roughly every three years even without a demonstrable change in circumstances. Knowing which path fits your situation can save time and reduce conflict.

Enforcing Child Support in Oregon

When a parent falls behind on support payments, Oregon law provides several enforcement tools. Understanding them is useful whether you’re owed support or navigating a collections action.

The Oregon Child Support Program can pursue collection through:

• Income withholding orders that redirect wages directly to the receiving parent
• Interception of state and federal tax refunds and other federal payments
• Garnishment of income sources including lottery winnings, insurance settlements, and inheritance
• Garnishment of bank accounts
• Liens filed against property owned by a parent with past-due support
• Suspension of a delinquent parent’s driver, recreational, or occupational licenses

Beyond the program’s administrative tools, a parent can also pursue a contempt of court action against a non-paying parent. Courts take willful non-payment seriously, and this route can carry significant consequences for the non-compliant party.

Why Corvallis Parents Work With Our Firm

Child support cases are filed in Benton County Circuit Court, located here in Corvallis. Our attorneys are familiar with local court procedures and handle family law matters with the focused attention these cases require.

Our client-driven approach sets the tone from the first consultation. We listen to your goals, explain your options under Oregon’s guidelines, and build a strategy around what matters most to you. Because we’re trial-ready, you’re not in a position where the other party’s willingness to litigate leaves you at a disadvantage.

We serve parents throughout Benton and Linn Counties. Whether your matter involves paternity establishment, an initial support order, a modification after a job change, or enforcement of an order the other parent has ignored, we can represent you at every stage.

Schedule a Consultation With a Corvallis Child Support Attorney

Child support decisions have long-term consequences for your family. Getting clear legal guidance early can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your child’s financial security.

Jennifer I. Nash & Nicolas Ortiz, P.C. represents parents in Corvallis and throughout Benton and Linn Counties. Call us at (541) 243-0678 to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.