NCJ Number
119488
Journal
Judges' Journal Volume: 28 Issue: 2 Dated: (Spring 1989) Pages: 40-43,51
Date Published
1989
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The use of computer software can help provide relief from the tedium of calculating child support payments, reduce the potential for miscalculations in assessing these payments, and make calculations quickly and inexpensively.
Abstract
Courts benefit in at least four ways from the use of automated calculations. First, automated support schedules allow attorneys to determine in advance the outcomes of hearings and thus reduce the amount of time needed for a hearing. In addition, computers free judges from performing complicated calculations about such issues as tax impacts. Moreover, computers make the judges and the courts appear more professional by dramatically reducing errors. Finally, automated schedules tend to standardize the amount of support and thus to produce similar results in similar cases. The systems are immediately updated when tax laws or support schedules are changed. In addition, they can give estimates that improve the attorney's communications with clients and reduce disagreements between attorneys and clients. Clients benefit as well, because the programs save them attorneys' fees and efficiently suggest support arrangements with the greatest tax advantages. Computer automation systems include Supportax from Norton Family Law Systems and the DissoMaster Program designed by family law specialist Stephen Adams. Four systems were also reviewed in the Spring 1988 issue of the "Family Advocate," published by the American Bar Association Family Law Section. Figures and addresses of four software vendors.