Free · Delaware · Current law
Based on Delaware's official Melson Formula formula. Enter both parents' incomes and get an estimate in under a minute.
Before taxes — wages, self-employment, bonuses
A best estimate is fine for now
Taxes, mandatory retirement, union dues…
Work or school related
Estimated monthly support
The other parent pays you, the parent with primary timesharing.
Estimate only — based on a simplified reading of Delaware Family Court Child Support Formula, Title 13 §514 (Melson Formula). A judge can deviate. Not legal advice.
Get a plain-English copy of this estimate, the numbers used, and a short checklist for what to review before relying on it.
Delaware uses the Melson Formula to calculate child support. This formula considers both parents' incomes and the child's needs. It starts by determining each parent's gross income, then subtracts certain deductions like taxes, a self-employment adjustment, and a self-support allowance to arrive at net income available for primary support. A primary support allowance is calculated based on the number of children. Additional costs for childcare and medical expenses are added to determine the total primary need. Each parent's share of this primary support obligation is then calculated based on their share of the net available income. Finally, a Standard of Living Adjustment (SOLA) and parenting time adjustments are applied to determine the net obligation.
A substantial change in either parent's income — voluntary or involuntary — can trigger a modification.
Changes in childcare costs or the children's health insurance premiums directly adjust the support amount.
If the custody schedule changes significantly, support can be recalculated under Delaware guidelines.
Medical conditions, disabilities, or educational needs can justify a departure from the guideline amount.
Common questions
A Delaware divorce typically takes a minimum of 6-7 months due to a mandatory 6-month separation period before the court can finalize the divorce. Uncontested cases may be resolved faster after this period, while contested cases can take longer.
While you are not legally required to have a lawyer to file for divorce in Delaware, it is highly recommended, especially in cases involving complex property division, child custody, or alimony. The Delaware Family Court handles divorce cases, and legal guidance can help navigate the process effectively.
Yes, Delaware is a no-fault divorce state. The primary ground for divorce is that the marriage is "irretrievably broken" and reconciliation is improbable, as stated in 13 Del. C. § 1505(a). This can be established through voluntary separation, separation due to misconduct, mental illness, or incompatibility.
Delaware follows the principle of equitable distribution (13 Del. C. § 1513). This means that marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally, between the spouses. The court considers various factors to achieve a just division, including contributions to the marriage, economic circumstances, and the duration of the marriage.
Delaware law, specifically 84 Del. Laws, c. 51 (effective June 27, 2023), now includes provisions for the disposition of companion animals as marital property. The court will award ownership and responsibility for the companion animal, considering its well-being and factors such as each party's ability to care for the animal and their attachment to it.
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