Mary L.O. v. Tommy R.B.
Application of percentage standards in high income case was within court’s discretion to fashion an order serving the best interests of the child.
Application of percentage standards in high income case was within court’s discretion to fashion an order serving the best interests of the child.
In a case of a high-income payee, the percentage standards presumptively apply, absent payor’s showing of unfairness.
Court property deviated from guidelines, where strict application would have resulted in child support of over $130,000 per year. Trial court properly exercised its discretion in finding such support would far exceed any amount necessary to provide for the children in a similar pre-divorce lifestyle, would be detrimental to the childrens’ values and would constitute hidden maintenance.
Trial court had the authority to establish a trust from child support paid during minority, some of which may be used to fund higher education. Statutory change did not alter import of Mary L.O..