Mississippi uses guidelines based on parents’ incomes and the number of children to calculate a baseline support amount, which is then adjusted for factors like custody arrangements and specific child expenses. Courts review income documentation such as pay stubs and tax returns to apply the formula and determine a fair monthly obligation that covers routine needs like housing, food, and utilities. Additional costs, such as extraordinary medical expenses or childcare related to employment, may be added separately. In Metcalfe, providing complete financial records helps the court produce an accurate and enforceable order. Because each family’s circumstances differ, judges can deviate from guideline amounts when justified by documented expenses or unique factors. Clear documentation and preparation increase the likelihood that the calculation will reflect the child’s actual needs and the parents’ financial capacity. Housley Law assists clients in assembling the required evidence and explaining how the guidelines apply in Washington County court, helping families understand expected outcomes and potential adjustments.