While present Illinois law provides child support guidelines based upon the income of the parent with whom the children do not reside, the court has discretion to deviate from those guidelines where appropriate.

For example, in the case of extremely high-income earners, application of the guidelines might result in a monthly child support award far in excess of children’s actual needs, and a windfall to the residential parent, and in such cases, a downward deviation may be warranted and approved by a judge. Grund & Leavitt’s attorneys can skillfully assist clients in achieving the best possible outcome while simultaneously ensuring that the needs of the children are met.