Mississippi Child Custody and Support Guidelines:
If the parents can't come to a mutual agreement concerning custody, the court shall base it's decision on the best interests of the child. There is no presumption that either parent is better suited for custody based on gender. In making an order for custody to either parent or to both parents jointly, the court may require the parents to submit a plan for the implementation of the custody order. If custody is disputed, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that it is detrimental to the child, and not in the best interest of the child, to be placed in sole custody, joint legal custody or joint physical custody of a parent who has a history of perpetrating family violence. [Based on Mississippi Code, Title 93, Section 93-5-24]
Child Support:
Mississippi uses the income shares model as a base for determining child support. When proof shows that both parents have separate incomes or estates, the court may require that each parent contribute to the support and maintenance of the children of the marriage in proportion to the relative financial ability of each. The duty of support of a child terminates upon the emancipation of the child. [Based on Mississippi Code, Title 93, Section 93-5-23]
