Child Support in Nevada
Max Stovall • March 9, 2023

The amount of child support depends on whether you have joint or primary physical custody, income, and number of children.

Child support is an essential part of ensuring the well-being of children whose parents are separated or divorced. In Nevada, child support is regulated by the Nevada Administrative Code (NAC), specifically NAC Chapter 425.


The NAC provides a formula for calculating child support based on the gross monthly income of each parent, the number of children involved, and the amount of time the noncustodial parent spends with the child. The amount of time spent with the child is referred to as physical custody and is either joint physical custody or primary physical custody (which is, that parent has over 60% of the time with their children).


Each parent has a child support obligation. If a parent has primary physical custody, the law assumes they are paying their child support because the child is living with them. The other parent, who only has visitation, must pay their full child support obligation to the parent with primary physical custody.


If the parties share joint physical custody, the parties subtract their child support obligation from the other, and the person who makes more money per month pays the other parent the difference in their obligations. 


The table below is an oversimplification of how the amount of a parent’s gross monthly income in Nevada is calculated. 


 One                       Two   

 $ 6,000.00  16%    $ 6,000.00  22%

 $ 4,000.00  8%      $ 4,000.00  11%

            extra 4%                 extra 6%

                           

Three                      Four   

 $ 6,000.00  26%    $ 6,000.00  28%

 $ 4,000.00  13%    $ 4,000.00  14%

           extra 6%                   extra 7%

                           

Five                          Six     

 $ 6,000.00  2%      $ 6,000.00  2%

 $ 4,000.00  1%      $ 4,000.00  1%

        extra 0.5%            extra 0.5%

 

If a parent has three children, 26% of the first $6,000 of their gross monthly income is set aside for child support. Then, 13% of the next $4,000 of their gross monthly income is set aside for child support. All money after this is set aside for child support at 6%. Assuming a parent has three children and makes $11,250 per month, his child support obligation would be $2,155.00 per month. (In case you’re wondering, for one child, it would be $1,330, for two it would be $1,835, for four it is $2,327.50, for five it is $2,493.75, for six it is $2,660.00).


We arrive at $11,250 by multiplying $6,000 by 0.26, which is $1,560. Then subtracting $6000 from $11,250, we still have $5250 left over. The next $4000 is multiplied by 0.13 for a total of $520. Then subtract that $4000 from the $5250, leaving us with $1250, which is multiplied by 0.06 for a total of $75. Add those amounts ($1,560.00 + $520.00 +  $75.00) and you have the child support obligation of $2155.


If you have three children and make $3750 per month, the math is much easier. Simply multiply $3750 by 0.26 and your child support obligation is a total of $975 per month.


Let’s look at three scenarios. This will be on the Bar Exam.


Under Nevada law, child support is typically calculated based on the level of physical custody, the gross monthly income of the parents, and the number of children involved.  In Scenario 1, the parents share joint physical custody, where they have two children, Father makes $25,000 per year, and Mother makes $130,000 per year. In Scenario 2, the parents share joint physical custody, Mother makes $45,000 per year, Father earns $50,000 per year, and they share six children between them. In Scenario 3, Mother has primary physical custody over the only child, Mother makes $145,000 per year, and Father makes $30,000 per year.


In Scenario 1, Mother’s child support payable each month is $1,351.67. This is because Father’s child support obligation is $458.33 and Mother’s is $1,810 and they share joint physical custody, so we subtract the two. If you’re following along but got a different number, you should remember we care about gross monthly income, not annual salaries. 


In Scenario 2, Father owes Mother $133.33 in child support each month. His child support obligation is $1,333.33 and her child support obligation is $1,200. Because there are six children the correct percentage to take from the parents’ income is 32% (28% from four children per NAC Chapter 425 then two percentage points per extra child, so 4%, so add 28% and 4% for the 32% multiplier) (with five children it would be 30%, at 40 children it would be 100%, in case you were really that far down into this rabbit hole, and if you’re here, I’m not even mad, please call me just to tell me you’re at this point this deep into the internet trying to research your child support issue. If you need this much help, I’ll work with you pro bono).


In Scenario 3, Father pays Mother $400 per month in total child support. Why? Because Mother has primary physical custody and Father needs to step up within his means and be a Dad. If joint, Mother would pay Father $963.32 with her child support obligation of $1,363.32.


It's important to note that the above calculations are only a general guideline, and the court may adjust the child support based on specific circumstances. Additionally, the court may consider other factors, such as the financial needs of the child and the financial resources of each parent, when determining child support obligations.


In conclusion, child support is an important obligation for noncustodial parents in Nevada. The NAC Chapter 425 provides a formula for calculating child support based on income, number of children, and physical custody. The amount of physical custody a parent has can significantly impact their child support obligation, with the obligation decreasing as physical custody increases. Parents should consult with a family law attorney to better understand their rights and obligations under Nevada law.

Understanding Your Miranda Rights in Nevada

By Max Stovall • July 11, 2025
If you’ve ever watched a crime drama on TV, you’ve probably heard the famous line: “You have the right to remain silent…” But in the real world — especially if you’ve been arrested or questioned by law enforcement — understanding what your Miranda rights actually mean can make or break your case. Whether you’re facing charges in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Nevada, it’s crucial to know your rights — and how to use them wisely. What Are Miranda Rights? Miranda rights come from the 1966 U.S. Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona. The ruling requires police to inform you of specific constitutional rights before conducting a custodial interrogation — that is, questioning you while you’re in police custody. These rights include: The right to remain silent The right to an attorney The warning that anything you say can be used against you in court The right to have an attorney appointed if you can’t afford one These protections stem from the Fifth Amendment (protection against self-incrimination) and the Sixth Amendment (right to legal counsel). When Do Miranda Rights Apply in Nevada? Here’s a common misconception: police are not required to read you your Miranda rights at the time of arrest. In Nevada, your rights only need to be read if: You are in custody, and Law enforcement intends to question you So, if you’re arrested but not questioned, Miranda may not apply. Likewise, if you’re being questioned but are not technically in custody (for example, during a voluntary interview), your statements may still be admissible even if no rights were read. This gray area is where people often get tripped up — and why having a lawyer involved early matters. What Happens If Police Don’t Read You Your Rights? If you’re interrogated while in custody and your Miranda rights weren’t read, any statements you made may be considered inadmissible in court. That means the prosecutor can’t use them against you — and in some cases, it may lead to charges being reduced or dismissed. However, this does not mean your entire case is thrown out. The charges can still stand if there’s other evidence against you — like physical evidence, witness testimony, or surveillance footage. That’s why it’s so important to invoke your rights — and use them — from the moment you’re detained. How to Use Your Rights Effectively Knowing your rights is one thing. Using them wisely is another. If you’re stopped, questioned, or arrested in Nevada, here’s what to do: Say clearly and calmly: “I’m invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak to an attorney.” Stop talking immediately. Even casual or offhand remarks can be used against you. Do not try to explain or justify yourself. That’s what your lawyer is for. Be respectful, but firm. You’re not required to answer questions, even if officers pressure you. This applies whether you’re in downtown Reno, at a traffic stop in Minden, or sitting in an interview room anywhere in the state. Miranda Rights Are a Tool — But Not a Loophole It’s important to understand that Miranda rights are not a “get out of jail free” card. They are there to protect you from coercion and help level the playing field between you and law enforcement. But if you waive those rights — either by speaking freely or answering questions — you may unknowingly harm your own case. That’s why having an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential. Your lawyer can challenge improper questioning, suppress statements made without proper Miranda warnings, and protect your constitutional rights at every stage of the process. Charged or Questioned in Northern Nevada? Don’t Go It Alone. At Max Stovall Law, we help clients across Douglas County, Washoe County, and greater Northern Nevada understand and assert their legal rights. Whether you’ve already been charged or you’ve just been contacted by police, we can step in, defend your rights, and help you make informed decisions from day one. Contact us today for a free consultation . We’ll walk you through what’s happened, what your options are, and how we can help protect your future — starting now.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony in Nevada: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

By Max Stovall • July 10, 2025
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Nevada, one of the first questions that comes up is whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony — and what that actually means. The difference isn’t just about legal definitions. It impacts everything: the potential penalties, how the case is handled in court, what kind of criminal record you’ll have, and how your future could be affected. Whether your case is in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, understanding this distinction is key to knowing your rights and making informed decisions. Let’s break it down. What Is a Misdemeanor in Nevada? A misdemeanor is considered a less serious offense, but that doesn’t mean the consequences are minor. Common misdemeanor charges in Nevada include: Petty theft or shoplifting (under $1,200) Trespassing First-time DUI (without injury) Simple battery or assault Vandalism Possession of small amounts of controlled substances In most cases, a misdemeanor is punishable by up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $1,000, and other penalties like community service, mandatory classes, or probation. These cases are typically handled in municipal or justice courts, such as East Fork Justice Court in Douglas County or Reno Justice Court in Washoe County. Even though jail time is possible, many first-time offenders may be eligible for alternative sentencing, diversion programs, or suspended sentences — especially if they have a good attorney advocating for them. What Is a Felony in Nevada? A felony is a more serious offense under Nevada law and carries significantly harsher penalties. Felony charges include: Drug trafficking Domestic violence with prior convictions Assault with a deadly weapon Grand larceny (theft over $1,200) Robbery Sexual offenses Homicide Felonies are categorized into five classes (A–E), with Category A felonies (like murder) being the most severe, potentially resulting in life in prison or even the death penalty. Lower-level felonies (Category D or E) may carry a sentence of 1–4 years in prison but still result in a permanent felony record. Felony cases are handled in district courts — for instance, Douglas County District Court in Minden or Second Judicial District Court in Reno. A felony conviction can impact your right to vote, own firearms, get certain jobs or licenses, and even find housing. That’s why felony charges require a strategic and aggressive legal defense — even if it’s your first offense. Why the Difference Matters The classification of your charge as a misdemeanor or felony affects more than just the penalties — it affects how the case is handled, how your record is treated, and how much leverage you have during plea negotiations. For example: A felony may not be eligible for record sealing for many years — if at all A misdemeanor may be sealed much sooner, sometimes just a year after the case closes Judges and prosecutors approach felonies with more scrutiny Felony convictions come with collateral consequences like losing civil rights It’s also not uncommon for some offenses to be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the facts of the case. This is known as a “wobbler” offense — and it’s one of many reasons why having an experienced defense attorney can make a big difference. The right lawyer may be able to get charges reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor or argue for alternative sentencing options that preserve your future. Don’t Make Assumptions — Get Legal Help Early Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere in Nevada, it’s a mistake to assume that one is “not a big deal.” Any criminal charge can follow you for years if it’s not handled correctly. At Max Stovall Law, we help clients navigate both misdemeanor and felony cases with clarity, strategy, and strength. We’ve worked in the local courts, we know the prosecutors, and we understand how to advocate for the best possible outcome — whether that means getting charges reduced, negotiating alternatives to jail, or fighting the case in court. If you’ve been charged — or are under investigation — don’t wait. Contact Max Stovall Law today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand what you’re facing and what steps to take next to protect your record and your future.