Child custody and support in Connecticut

Custody of the Children In Connecticut

The court awards joint and individual custody in the state of Connecticut. Awarding custody is based on the parties' agreement or, in a contested situation, the court considers the wishes of the child, if he or she is sufficiently mature. A parenting education program, which must be satisfactorily completed and participated in by both parents, is a factor in the court's decision regarding child custody.

Connecticut Child Support Guidelines

The state of Connecticut has specific state-mandated child support guidelines. These guidelines will apply in virtually every case, barring exceptional circumstances. Both parties' gross income and child related expenses are taken into consideration when calculating this amount. Support continues until the child reaches age 18 and may be extended through his or her secondary education.