Child Support in Nevada

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.

Northern Nevada Child Custody: Understanding Nevada's "Best Interest of the Child" Standard

December 8, 2025
Family law matters affect what matters most—your children. When parents in Reno, Minden, Carson City, or the wider Northern Nevada area face separation or divorce, the most critical decision involves establishing custody. In Nevada, the court's priority is singular and unwavering: the best interest of the child. Understanding this standard and the factors a local judge considers is the first and most vital step in protecting your relationship with your child. The Foundational Standard: Best Interest of the Child Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 125C.0035), every custody determination, whether initial or modified, must be based on what the judge determines is in the child's best interest. This is a complex standard, requiring the court to evaluate numerous factors. What Does "Best Interest" Mean in Nevada Law? The court does not use a simple checklist; instead, it conducts a holistic evaluation of the family situation. Key factors the court must consider include: The Child’s Emotional Bonds: The love, affection, and emotional ties between each parent and the child. The Capacity of the Parent: Each parent's ability to cooperate, facilitate a relationship with the other parent, and address the child's developmental needs. Conflict Between Parents: The level of conflict between the parents and the potential for that conflict to harm the child. The court favors parents who can minimize conflict. Parental Health and Safety: The mental and physical health of each parent. This includes any history of abuse, neglect, or substance dependency. Caring for the Child: Which parent has historically acted as the primary caregiver. The Child’s Preference: If the child is of sufficient age and capacity to form an intelligent preference, the court will consider their wishes, though this is only one factor among many. Crucial Takeaway: The court is not looking for a "perfect parent," but the arrangement that best promotes the child's stability, safety, and well-being. Physical vs. Legal Custody: Key Distinctions A custody order determines two distinct types of rights and responsibilities. It’s essential to understand the difference between them, as they are often treated differently by the court. Legal Custody Legal custody is the authority to make major, long-term decisions concerning the child's upbringing. This includes choices about: Education (which school the child attends) Medical care (non-emergency procedures) Religious instruction In Northern Nevada, courts overwhelmingly favor joint legal custody, meaning both parents share the right to make these major decisions, even if one parent has primary physical custody. Physical Custody Physical custody refers to where the child lives on a day-to-day basis and which parent is responsible for their routine care. Joint Physical Custody: The child spends a significant, roughly equal amount of time with both parents. This arrangement is common and often favored if parents live close and can cooperate effectively. Primary Physical Custody: The child spends the majority of their time (more than 60%) with one parent, while the other parent is typically awarded a structured visitation schedule, often referred to as parenting time. Common Custody Challenges in Northern Nevada Because Northern Nevada is a transient region, specific issues often arise in the family law context: Relocation Cases (Moving Out of State) If a parent with joint physical custody or primary physical custody wishes to move a child out of the state of Nevada, the law requires specific steps. Unless the other parent agrees, you must petition the court for permission. The court will apply a detailed analysis of factors to determine if the move is in the child's best interest. Relocation is one of the most complex areas of custody law. Enforcement of Orders If one parent fails to follow the court-ordered parenting plan—by withholding visitation, failing to pay support, or violating other terms—the other parent may need to file a motion for contempt or an enforcement action. The court takes non-compliance seriously and may impose sanctions or modify the order. How the Law Offices of Maximilian A. Stovall Can Help Navigating the courts in Reno, Minden, and Carson City requires not just a knowledge of Nevada law, but deep familiarity with local judges and procedures. At the Law Offices of Maximilian A. Stovall, we provide: Smart Strategy: We help you understand how the "best interest" factors apply specifically to your unique family situation. Local Advantage: Max Stovall brings deep familiarity with the local judicial system, ensuring your case is presented efficiently. Fierce Advocacy: Whether we are negotiating a fair parenting plan outside of court or advocating for your rights and your child's well-being in a contested hearing, we offer steady guidance every step of the way. If you are facing a child custody matter in Northern Nevada, it is critical to seek experienced legal counsel immediately. Contact Us Today Ready to discuss your case? Contact the Law Offices of Maximilian A. Stovall for compassionate guidance and strong representation.

Probation Violations in Nevada: What to Expect

By Max Stovall • November 26, 2025
Being placed on probation in Nevada can feel like a second chance. Instead of serving time in jail or prison, you get to remain in the community — but that opportunity comes with strict conditions. If you violate those terms, you could be facing serious consequences, including the possibility of serving the original sentence you were trying to avoid. Whether your probation is through Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, knowing what counts as a violation — and what happens next — is critical. Common Ways Probation Is Violated Probation conditions vary depending on your case, but violations generally fall into two categories: 1. Technical violations – Breaking the specific rules of your probation, such as: Missing meetings with your probation officer Failing to complete court-ordered classes or community service Traveling out of state without permission Not paying required fines, fees, or restitution 2. Substantive violations – Committing a new offense while on probation, even if it’s unrelated to your original charge. This can include anything from a DUI arrest to a shoplifting charge. Sometimes, violations happen due to misunderstandings — for example, missing an appointment because you didn’t get a schedule change notice. But even unintentional violations can still lead to serious consequences. What Happens After a Probation Violation in Nevada If your probation officer believes you’ve violated your terms, they can file a violation report with the court. The judge may then: Issue a summons for you to appear in court, or Issue a warrant for your arrest (especially if the violation is serious or involves a new criminal charge ) You’ll then attend a probation revocation hearing, where the court decides if you did, in fact, violate your probation and what should happen next. Possible Penalties for a Probation Violation Penalties vary depending on the nature and severity of the violation, your criminal history, and your overall compliance with probation before the incident. The court can: Reinstate your probation with the same terms Modify your probation by adding stricter conditions Extend the length of your probation Revoke your probation entirely and require you to serve the original jail or prison sentence If your violation involves a new criminal charge, you could be dealing with two separate cases — one for the violation and one for the new offense. Defenses to a Probation Violation Having an attorney at your probation revocation hearing is essential. Your lawyer may be able to show: The violation didn’t happen (mistaken identity, inaccurate records) The violation was unintentional and due to circumstances beyond your control You have made significant progress on probation and deserve another chance Alternative measures (like increased supervision or additional classes) would be more appropriate than jail time Unlike criminal trials, probation violation hearings have a lower burden of proof — meaning the prosecution doesn’t need to prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt. This makes having an advocate on your side even more important. Local Help for Probation Violations in Douglas and Washoe Counties At Max Stovall Law, we understand that life on probation can be challenging, and sometimes mistakes happen. We’ve represented clients across Douglas County and Washoe County in probation violation hearings, helping them avoid unnecessary jail time and get back on track. If you’ve been accused of violating your probation, don’t face the judge alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight to keep your freedom.