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Complete Guide to Child Support in Nicholson

If you are dealing with child support matters in Nicholson, Mississippi, understanding your rights and options is essential for protecting your family’s financial stability. Child support issues can arise in many contexts, including divorce, separation, paternity establishment, or modification of existing orders. Our content is focused specifically on the local procedures and laws that apply in Pearl River County and offers clear information about filing, enforcement, and modification. We aim to help parents understand what to expect and how to prepare documentation, communicate effectively with the other parent, and navigate the court process when necessary.

This guide highlights the processes commonly involved in child support cases in Nicholson and nearby areas of Mississippi, offering practical advice on gathering evidence, understanding income calculations, and responding to enforcement actions. Whether you are seeking an initial support order or pursuing a change due to a substantial life event, the information here will help you feel more confident in the next steps. We discuss timelines, what courts consider when making determinations, and realistic ways to address disputes while prioritizing the best interests of the child.

Why Addressing Child Support Matters in Nicholson

Addressing child support properly ensures children have access to necessary resources for housing, healthcare, and education. Establishing or modifying support orders through the court provides a predictable means for obtaining financial contributions and creates enforceable obligations. For parents in Nicholson, having clear court orders can reduce conflict and help with long-term planning. A formal order also enables enforcement tools if payments are missed, and it can be the foundation for tax, insurance, and custody-related decisions. Overall, timely and accurate child support arrangements support stability and reduce uncertainty for children and caretakers.

About Housley Law and Our Family Law Focus

Housley Law serves clients across Mississippi, including Nicholson and Pearl River County, with a focus on resolving family law matters such as child support. Our firm provides guidance on filing petitions, negotiating agreements, responding to motions, and representing clients in court when needed. We prioritize clear communication about local court practices, likely timelines, and practical strategies to protect client interests. Clients receive assistance preparing financial affidavits, gathering documentation, and understanding how income and childcare costs factor into support calculations under Mississippi law.

Understanding Child Support Services in Nicholson

Child support services typically include establishing paternity, filing for an original support order, modifying an existing order, and enforcing payments. In Nicholson, the county courts follow state guidelines that consider income, custody arrangements, and childcare expenses to calculate support. The process often begins with filing paperwork and sharing financial information with the court and other parent. Mediation or negotiation may resolve many cases before trial, but some situations require hearings. Understanding each step and preparing complete documentation can improve outcomes and reduce unnecessary delays in court proceedings.

Support modifications may be appropriate when there has been a substantial change in circumstances such as job loss, significant income change, or changed childcare needs. Enforcement actions can involve wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, or contempt proceedings if payments are willfully missed. Nicholson residents should be aware of filing deadlines and local court practices that affect scheduling. Knowing how to request temporary orders, provide proof of expenses, and properly serve paperwork helps keep matters moving and increases the likelihood of a resolution that reflects current realities.

What Child Support Means Under Mississippi Law

Child support refers to the ongoing financial contribution from one parent to the other for the care of a child. In Mississippi, support is calculated using statutory guidelines, which consider each parent’s income, the number of children, and the custody arrangement. Courts also account for health insurance costs, childcare for work or education, and other necessary expenses. The goal of child support determinations is to ensure that the child’s basic needs are met in a fair manner. Paternity establishment is often a prerequisite for enforcing support obligations when parents were not married.

Key Elements and Typical Processes in Child Support Cases

Several core elements influence child support outcomes: documented income, parenting time, childcare expenses, health insurance, and special needs. The typical process begins with filing a petition, followed by exchange of financial information and possible mediation. If mediation does not resolve the matter, the court schedules hearings where evidence about income and expenses is presented. Courts may enter temporary orders while a case is pending and later issue a final order reflecting the parties’ circumstances. Keeping accurate records and timely disclosures helps the court reach decisions based on a clear financial picture.

Key Terms and Glossary for Child Support

Understanding common terms used in child support proceedings helps parents navigate the process with greater confidence. Terms such as paternity, income withholding, deviation, and arrearage describe facets of the legal and financial framework that courts use. Familiarizing yourself with these phrases before filing paperwork or attending hearings allows for more effective communication with the court and the other parent. Below is a concise glossary of terms often encountered during child support cases in Nicholson and across Mississippi.

Paternity

Paternity establishes the legal relationship between a father and a child, which may be required before a court can order child support. Paternity can be established voluntarily through an acknowledgment form, or through genetic testing ordered by the court. Once paternity is legally established, the parent who is not the primary custodial parent may be ordered to provide financial support. Establishing paternity also creates rights and responsibilities regarding custody, visitation, and decision-making, and it enables a parent to seek enforcement or modification of support orders when necessary.

Arrearage

An arrearage refers to unpaid child support that has accrued under an existing court order. When payments are missed, the outstanding balance becomes an arrearage and may lead to enforcement actions such as income withholding, interception of state or federal payments, suspension of licenses, or contempt proceedings. Courts may add interest and other fees to unpaid amounts. Addressing arrearages promptly through payment arrangements or modification petitions can limit additional penalties and help avoid more severe enforcement measures over time.

Income Withholding

Income withholding is a common enforcement tool in which child support payments are automatically deducted from the paying parent’s wages and directed to the receiving parent or state disbursement unit. Mississippi courts can order withholding to secure regular payments and reduce the likelihood of missed contributions. This mechanism is often initiated after an order is entered or to collect arrearages. Employers receive an order to withhold a specified portion of earnings and remit it to the appropriate agency, providing a reliable way to deliver consistent support to the child.

Modification

A modification is a legal request to change an existing child support order when there has been a substantial change in circumstances. Examples include significant changes in either parent’s income, alterations to custody or parenting time, or new and material expenses related to the child’s care. To seek a modification, a parent must file a motion with the court and present evidence showing why the current order no longer reflects the parties’ situations. The court will evaluate the requested change and may grant a new order if modification criteria are met.

Comparing Limited and Comprehensive Approaches

When addressing child support, parents can pursue limited actions such as requesting a temporary order or handling simple paperwork to establish support, or a more comprehensive route involving full discovery, hearings, and negotiated final agreements. Limited approaches may be sufficient if both parties agree on basic terms and financial situations are straightforward. More comprehensive processes are appropriate when there are disputes over income, custody, or complex expenses. Choosing the approach that fits your case helps manage costs, time, and the likelihood of a fair resolution that reflects the child’s needs.

When a Limited Approach to Support Is Appropriate:

Mutual Agreement on Support Amounts

A limited approach can be effective when both parents agree on income disclosures, custody arrangements, and child-related expenses. If documentation is clear and both parties are willing to sign off on an agreed order, the process can be faster and less costly than contested litigation. Parties may submit a proposed order to the court for approval, reducing the need for lengthy hearings. This path works well for families seeking quick stability and willing to collaborate to reach terms that meet the child’s needs without prolonged dispute.

Straightforward Financial Situations

When neither party has complex income sources, unusual expenses, or disputed custody arrangements, a limited approach can meet the needs of the case. Simplified filings and clear banking or paycheck records make calculations straightforward under Mississippi guidelines. Resolving support issues through agreement or administrative processes often reduces court time and associated costs. This path can be appropriate for parents who want a practical solution, especially when both are cooperative and the best interests of the child can be satisfied through a clean, agreed order.

Why a Comprehensive Approach May Be Necessary:

Disputed Income or Custody

A comprehensive approach is often required when there are disputes over income sources, self-employment earnings, or custodial time that significantly affect calculations. In such situations, the parties may need formal discovery, subpoenas for financial records, and detailed hearings to establish accurate figures. Courts rely on reliable evidence to set or modify orders, so preparing a thorough case can be essential when each side presents conflicting information. The process helps ensure the final order reflects the true financial circumstances and parenting arrangements.

Complex Expenses or Enforcement Issues

Comprehensive handling is also appropriate when there are complex expenses such as extraordinary medical costs, educational needs, or long-term care considerations. Enforcement issues, including significant arrearages or patterns of nonpayment, can require formal contempt proceedings or wage garnishments and may involve multiple hearings. Thorough preparation and representation at these proceedings help present the facts clearly and pursue remedies that protect the child’s financial interests over time. Courts consider detailed evidence when resolving complex disputes.

Benefits of Taking a Comprehensive Approach

A comprehensive approach to child support ensures that all relevant financial details are examined and that the resulting court order addresses present and foreseeable needs. When both income and expenses are thoroughly documented, orders are less likely to result in future disputes or surprise modifications. This can provide greater long-term stability and reduce the need for repeated court interventions. A well-prepared case also improves clarity about enforcement remedies should the paying parent fall behind on obligations.

Comprehensive preparation also helps protect the interests of both parents by fostering accurate calculations and defensible positions. Parents who present complete records and credible testimony often obtain outcomes that reflect their actual circumstances. Thorough handling of the case can reduce ambiguity about responsibilities for childcare, insurance, and extraordinary costs. While more involved up front, this approach can ultimately save time and reduce repeated court filings by creating a clearer, more durable support arrangement.

Greater Accuracy in Support Calculations

A comprehensive approach leads to more precise support calculations because all income streams and allowable deductions are examined. This includes wages, self-employment income, bonuses, and benefit income that may affect support totals. Proper documentation such as tax returns, pay stubs, and business records ensures the court bases its decision on reliable data. Accurate orders reduce the likelihood of future disputes and provide clearer expectations for both parents about monthly obligations and responsibilities for shared expenses.

Stronger Position on Complex Issues

Thorough case preparation strengthens your position when the court must address complex matters like deviations from guidelines, unusual childcare costs, or enforcement of arrearages. Detailed evidence and organized financial summaries help judges understand the real needs of the child and the capacity of each parent to contribute. This clarity supports well-reasoned judicial decisions and can lead to outcomes that better reflect the family’s day-to-day financial realities, avoiding vague orders that cause disagreement down the line.

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Practical Tips for Handling Child Support Matters

Organize Financial Records Early

Gathering and organizing financial documentation early in the process reduces delays and strengthens your position. Collect recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, childcare invoices, and records of medical expenses that relate to the child. If self-employed, compile profit-and-loss statements and business bank records. Having these documents prepared before filing or responding to motions speeds up negotiations and ensures the court receives accurate information. Well-organized records also make it easier to calculate support amounts and defend your financial claims during hearings.

Prioritize Clear Communication

Clear and calm communication with the other parent can resolve many issues without extended litigation. Propose reasonable arrangements in writing and be prepared to back proposals with documentation. If direct communication isn’t possible, consider mediation or a neutral third party to facilitate an agreement. Communicating changes in income, work schedule, or childcare needs promptly helps avoid misunderstandings and supports more practical temporary arrangements. When agreements are reached, submit them to the court to obtain enforceable orders.

Act Quickly on Changes and Missed Payments

If circumstances change materially—such as a job loss, significant income fluctuation, or new medical expenses—file for a modification as soon as practical rather than letting arrearages accumulate. Likewise, if payments are missed or inconsistent, document the occurrences and pursue enforcement options through the appropriate channels. Prompt action helps minimize additional penalties, interest, and the stress of mounting unpaid balances. Keeping records of communications and payments is essential when seeking remedies from the court or state disbursement units.

Reasons to Consider Formal Child Support Proceedings

Formal child support proceedings provide a structured way to establish stable financial contributions for a child’s needs. An official order creates enforceable obligations, offers predictable monthly support, and clarifies responsibilities for health insurance and childcare. Parents who lack a clear agreement or who face inconsistent payments can benefit from the protections available through the court system. Additionally, formal orders can be adjusted over time to reflect changes in income or custody, ensuring support remains aligned with current circumstances.

Using the legal process also opens enforcement options if payments are not made, such as wage garnishment, tax refund interception, and other court-ordered remedies. A formal record of payments and obligations helps prevent disputes and provides documentation for other legal matters, including custody and assistance programs. For many families in Nicholson, securing an official order reduces stress and enables better financial planning for the child’s future, addressing immediate needs while creating a framework for long-term support.

Common Situations That Lead to Child Support Cases

Several common situations prompt child support actions: parents separating or divorcing, unmarried parents establishing paternity and support, significant changes in income, or nonpayment of an existing order. Other circumstances include the need to address extraordinary medical or educational expenses for the child, or disagreements about custody that impact support calculations. Understanding which category your situation falls into helps determine the appropriate starting point, whether filing for an initial order, requesting a modification, or pursuing enforcement for unpaid amounts.

Separation or Divorce

Separation or divorce commonly triggers the need for a child support order to ensure ongoing financial contributions for the child’s care. Courts aim to set obligations that reflect the child’s needs and the parents’ financial abilities, taking into account custody arrangements and time spent with each parent. During these proceedings, it is important to provide accurate financial documentation, suggest realistic support amounts, and address additional costs like insurance and childcare. A court-ordered arrangement provides clarity and a mechanism for enforcement if payments become inconsistent.

Unmarried Parents Establishing Paternity

When parents were not married at the time of a child’s birth, establishing paternity is often the first legal step before child support can be ordered. Paternity can be acknowledged voluntarily or established through testing, after which the court can issue a support order. This process secures legal rights and responsibilities, enabling the child to receive financial support and benefits related to the parent-child relationship. Paternity establishment is also relevant for custody, visitation, and enrollment in benefits such as health insurance.

Significant Income or Custody Changes

Substantial changes in income or custody arrangements can justify seeking a modification of an existing support order. Changes could include job loss, new employment with markedly different pay, long-term illness, or a relocation that alters parenting time. To pursue a modification, parties must show that the change is material and persistent, and provide documentation supporting the request. Courts evaluate the impact on the child’s needs and the parent’s ability to pay before deciding whether to revise a support order.

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We’re Here to Help Nicholson Families with Child Support

Housley Law is available to assist residents of Nicholson with practical guidance on child support matters, from initial filings to enforcement and modifications. We can help you prepare required documents, understand local court expectations in Pearl River County, and assess the best approach for your situation. Whether you need help organizing financial records, negotiating an agreement, or presenting your case at a hearing, our goal is to provide straightforward information and support to help secure fair and sustainable arrangements for your child.

Why Nicholson Families Choose Housley Law for Child Support

Clients in Nicholson turn to Housley Law for clear guidance on navigating child support processes under Mississippi law. Our firm emphasizes practical strategies and timely communication to help clients understand their options and court procedures in Pearl River County. We assist with paperwork preparation, evidence collection, and court submissions to ensure cases proceed efficiently. Our approach focuses on realistic solutions that prioritize the child’s needs while addressing financial realities and logistical concerns specific to local courts.

We work to keep clients informed at each step of the process, explaining likely timelines, potential outcomes, and options for negotiation or litigation. This includes advising on when to seek a modification, how to document extraordinary expenses, and the enforcement remedies available for missed payments. By offering practical, local-focused counsel, we aim to reduce uncertainty and help families in Nicholson secure orderly child support arrangements that fit their circumstances.

Housley Law also assists with coordination across related family law matters, including custody and visitation issues that influence support determinations. Our goal is to provide comprehensive case management so clients can present a coherent picture to the court and pursue solutions aligned with their family’s best interests. If you need assistance preparing for hearings or developing a plan to address unpaid support, we can help you take appropriate next steps in Pearl River County.

Contact Housley Law for a Consultation in Nicholson

How Child Support Cases Proceed at Our Firm

At Housley Law, the process begins with a thorough intake to understand your situation and collect financial documents. We explain local filing requirements for Pearl River County, prepare pleadings, and recommend next steps whether that means negotiation, mediation, or court hearings. We prioritize clear timelines and realistic expectations for resolution. Our team assists with serving documents, submitting evidence, and representing client interests at hearings, always focusing on obtaining stable financial arrangements that serve the child’s needs and reflect current circumstances.

Step 1: Case Evaluation and Filing

The initial step involves reviewing your financial situation, custody arrangements, and any existing orders to determine the proper filing strategy. We assist in drafting and filing petitions or responses with the court in Pearl River County, and guide you through paternity establishment if needed. This step includes identifying relevant documents such as tax returns, pay stubs, and expense records. Early preparation improves the clarity of your case and sets the stage for productive negotiation or trial preparation if necessary.

Gathering Necessary Documents

Collecting accurate and comprehensive financial documentation is a central part of preparing a child support case. This includes recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and records of childcare and medical expenses tied to the child. If you are self-employed, business profit-and-loss statements and invoices may be necessary. Clear, well-organized records help the court apply Mississippi guidelines correctly and reduce time spent verifying facts during hearings or negotiations.

Filing Petitions and Serving the Other Parent

Once documents are prepared, petitions or responses are filed with the court in Pearl River County and the other parent is served according to legal requirements. Timely and proper service ensures the court can proceed and that both parties have an opportunity to present information. We can help coordinate service, prepare temporary orders if immediate relief is needed, and advise on how to respond to filings from the other party to protect your interests throughout the initial phase.

Step 2: Negotiation, Mediation, and Discovery

After initial filings, many cases move into negotiation or mediation to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. If disputes persist, discovery may be used to obtain financial records, employment information, or other relevant evidence. Mediation offers a less adversarial setting to resolve differences, while discovery provides the factual basis for contested hearings. Preparing thorough documentation during this phase is critical for credible negotiations and for presenting a compelling case to the court if an agreement cannot be reached.

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

Mediation allows parents to discuss support, custody, and related issues with the help of a neutral facilitator. This process can be faster and less costly than contested litigation and often leads to more workable agreements for both parties. During mediation, bring financial records and proposals so the mediator can help craft balanced terms. If an agreement is reached, it can be submitted to the court for approval and entry as a binding order, reducing future uncertainty and potential enforcement proceedings.

Discovery and Evidence Collection

When negotiations do not resolve disputes, discovery tools such as document requests, subpoenas, and sworn financial disclosures help establish an accurate picture of income and expenses. Gathering evidence of wages, benefits, childcare costs, and medical expenses provides the factual basis the court needs for a fair determination. Preparing clear summaries and organized exhibits makes presenting your case more effective and can influence settlement discussions or hearing outcomes in Pearl River County courts.

Step 3: Hearings, Orders, and Enforcement

If mediation and negotiation fail to produce a resolution, the case proceeds to hearings where the judge reviews evidence and issues temporary or final orders. The court’s decision will set the support amount, payment method, and provisions for insurance and extraordinary expenses. After an order is entered, enforcement mechanisms are available for missed payments, and parties can later seek modifications if circumstances change. Understanding post-order remedies and compliance obligations helps ensure the support system functions effectively for the child’s benefit.

Court Hearings and Presenting Evidence

At hearings, each party presents evidence supporting their position on income, expenses, and custody arrangements. Organized documents, credible testimony, and clear financial summaries are important to persuading the court. The judge will use statutory guidelines and the facts presented to issue orders. Being prepared for hearings, understanding likely questions, and providing accurate records increase the chance of a well-reasoned order that reflects both the child’s needs and the parents’ capacities to contribute financially.

Obtaining Orders and Pursuing Enforcement

Once an order is entered, it becomes enforceable through mechanisms such as wage withholding, interception of tax refunds, and contempt proceedings for noncompliance. If payments are missed, documenting the defaults and seeking enforcement promptly helps protect the receiving parent and the child. Courts may also consider payment histories when evaluating future modifications or related matters. Understanding how to request enforcement and the remedies available in Mississippi helps families maintain consistent support for the child.

Child Support Frequently Asked Questions — Nicholson

How is child support calculated in Mississippi?

Mississippi calculates child support using statutory guidelines that factor in each parent’s gross income, number of children, and custody arrangements. The court also looks at necessary childcare and health insurance costs when determining the support amount. To reach a reliable calculation, courts rely on financial documentation such as pay stubs, tax returns, and evidence of other income or benefit payments. The guidelines provide a baseline, and courts may make adjustments for specific expenses or deviations where appropriate. If you need help understanding these calculations for Nicholson, gathering supporting documents and presenting a clear income picture to the court is important. We assist clients in compiling the necessary financial records, explaining how guideline figures are derived, and showing where adjustments may be warranted based on the child’s actual needs and the parents’ circumstances.

Yes, child support can be modified when there is a substantial and continuing change in circumstances, such as a major change in income, a significant change in parenting time, or new expenses related to the child’s care. To seek a modification, a parent must file a motion with the court and provide evidence demonstrating why the current order no longer reflects the parties’ realities. The court reviews the evidence to determine whether a change is justified. Timing and documentation are key when pursuing a modification in Pearl River County. Keep records of income changes, job loss, or increased childcare costs, and file promptly to avoid accumulating arrearages or further disputes. We help clients assess whether a modification is appropriate and prepare the necessary filings and supporting information.

If the other parent refuses to pay child support, there are several enforcement tools available under Mississippi law. Common remedies include wage withholding, interception of tax refunds, suspension of licenses, and contempt proceedings that may result in fines or jail for willful nonpayment. The state disbursement unit can assist with collection, and courts have authority to impose penalties to compel compliance. Documenting missed payments and communicating formally through the appropriate channels helps establish the basis for enforcement. Acting promptly by filing a motion or contacting the state disbursement unit increases the chances of recovering past-due support. We guide clients through the enforcement process and help pursue remedies that restore consistent payments for the child.

To establish paternity in Nicholson, parents can voluntarily sign a paternity acknowledgment or the court may order genetic testing if paternity is disputed. Once paternity is established, the court can enter child support orders and address custody and visitation rights. The process creates legal recognition of the parent-child relationship and the responsibilities that follow. If paternity is uncertain, requesting genetic testing through the court is a common step. We assist clients in pursuing paternity actions, preparing paperwork, and understanding the implications for support, custody, and benefits. Establishing paternity is often the necessary first step for unmarried parents seeking enforcement or support orders.

Yes, medical and childcare expenses are typically considered when calculating child support or as separate obligations in the order. Health insurance premiums for the child and reasonable out-of-pocket medical costs are often allocated between parents based on their incomes. Childcare expenses necessary for work or education are also commonly included or added as an additional expense beyond the base support calculation. Proper documentation of insurance premiums, receipts for medical services, and childcare invoices helps the court allocate these costs fairly. When these expenses are significant, presenting clear records during proceedings in Pearl River County improves the court’s ability to craft an order that covers those needs appropriately.

The time it takes to obtain a child support order can vary depending on whether the parties agree, the complexity of financial issues, and the local court schedule in Pearl River County. If both parents agree and paperwork is complete, orders can be entered relatively quickly. Contested matters that require discovery, hearings, and scheduling may take longer to resolve. Temporary orders can sometimes be obtained while the case is pending to address immediate needs. Preparing documents in advance and responding promptly to court requests speeds the process. We help clients file initial pleadings, gather necessary records, and request temporary relief when needed to reduce delays and secure necessary financial support during the case.

Retroactive child support may be available in some circumstances, often depending on when a parent first sought legal recognition or enforcement. Courts sometimes consider support for past periods when a parent was legally obligated but did not provide financial contributions. The availability and scope of retroactive awards vary based on when filings occurred and the specific facts of the case. Documenting past expenses and attempts to obtain support supports claims for retroactive relief. Acting promptly to file petitions or enforcement motions increases the chance the court will consider prior periods. We advise clients on the likelihood of retroactive recovery and help prepare the evidence needed to pursue it in court.

Several enforcement options exist for unpaid child support, including automatic wage withholding, interception of state or federal payments, and administrative actions through the state disbursement unit. Courts can also hold a parent in contempt for willful refusal to pay, which can lead to fines or incarceration in extreme cases. Other remedies may include liens on property or suspension of driver’s or professional licenses to encourage compliance. Pursuing enforcement typically begins with documenting missed payments and filing a motion with the court or contacting the state disbursement unit. Swift action and clear records increase the likelihood of recovering overdue amounts. We assist clients in initiating enforcement and seeking remedies tailored to the situation.

Whether you must appear in person in Pearl River County depends on the nature of the proceedings and current court practices. Many initial hearings, mediations, or status conferences may require attendance, though some routine matters can be handled through filings or telephone appearances. It is important to follow the court’s instructions regarding attendance to avoid delays or default judgments. We advise clients on local court procedures, help prepare them for required appearances, and represent them when in-person attendance is necessary. If travel or scheduling is a concern, discuss alternatives with the court or your counsel to ensure your interests are protected without unnecessary hardship.

Housley Law helps Nicholson clients by preparing filings, organizing financial documentation, and representing them in negotiations or court hearings related to child support. We focus on clear communication about local court expectations in Pearl River County and on practical strategies for obtaining a stable support order. Assistance includes assessing whether a modification or enforcement action is appropriate and advising on the best steps to protect the child’s financial needs. Our role also includes helping clients understand post-order obligations and enforcement remedies, coordinating related custody matters, and preparing for hearings with organized evidence. We work to ensure clients are informed and prepared throughout each stage of the process so they can pursue outcomes that serve their family’s needs.

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