One of the major factors used in calculating California guideline Child Support is the amount of time that each parent spends with the minor child / children. This is typically referred to as the “timeshare.” This is also commonly referred to as custody percentage. If the timeshare is incorrectly calculated, it will lead to a child support order that is higher or lower than the actual guideline support.
Calculating the correct timeshare, or custody percentage, requires knowing the exact amount of hours the children spend with each parent on an average monthly or annual basis. This will be determined by the child custody and visitation arrangement that was ordered by the court or agreed to between the parties. It may include weekend, weekly, or monthly visitation schedules and often will have some holiday, or vacation add on time that needs to be considered.
Start by writing down your basic parenting time or visitation schedule. Add each of the hours up according to chart below and determine the average time that you spend with your child/ children.
| Period of Time | Conversion |
| 1 Day | 24 hours |
| 1 Week | 168 hours |
| 2 Weeks | 336 hours |
| 1 Year | 8,760 hours |
| 1 Year | 52 weeks |
| Every other weekend | 26 weekends/year |
| 1st/3rd/5th weekends | 28 weekends/year |
This process can be confusing. It is always advisable to consult with an attorney when it comes to an issue of disputed child support and child custody issues. The Law Offices of Sean M. Patrick has significant experience, and a winning track record on issues of child support, and child custody issues. Contact our office today for a free telephone consultation.
(916) 226-6062