Child custody and support in Hawaii

Custody of the Children In Hawaii

Custody is awarded based on preserving the best interests of the child. Custody can be awarded to one or both parents. Having legal custody in Hawaii allows a parent to have input regarding the important decisions about a child’s development. Normally both parents are granted legal custody and one parent is granted primary physical custody. It is however possible to have joint residential custody awarded. Depending upon the level of maturity, a child’s wishes regarding custody may be given weight by the court.

Hawaii Child Support Guidelines

In Hawaii, child support guidelines established by the state will apply in almost every case. With these guidelines, both parties’ gross income and some child related expenses are considered when calculating the amount of support paid. This child support will continue to be paid until the child reaches age 18 and it may extend through his or her secondary education.