Child Custody & Support
Experienced Child Support Lawyer in St. Louis, MO
When parents get divorced, their main concern is ensuring the wellbeing of their children. Each party may have a different idea of what is best for their children. Typically, the parent who receives more custody time is entitled to child support from the other parent.
If you need help establishing a child support order, or modifying an order that no longer fits your situation, we can help. Margot Beasley is a compassionate and experienced child support lawyer based in St. Louis, MO. She can help you understand your options and fight for your interests if there is a dispute.
Child support payments are typically determined based on:
- The income of each parent
- The earning ability of each parent
- The nature of the custody agreement
- The specific living expenses of the child (health insurance, etc.)
A child support lawyer can help you make the implementation process simpler and represent you in court if necessary.
Work With a Child Custody Attorney to Establish, Modify, or Enforce a Family Court Order
There are two types of custody: physical and legal. Physical custody addresses the time each parent will spend with the child. Having legal custody means you have the authority to make important decisions regarding the child’s healthcare, education, religion, and other aspects of their upbringing. Courts also must decide between awarding sole custody to one parent or joint custody to both parents. In most cases, they will opt to award joint custody.
This means a custody and parenting time agreement must be determined. This arrangement may be determined based on:
- The child’s age
- Each parents’ relationship with the child
- The relationship between the parents and their ability to communicate with each other
- The distance between the two parents’ homes
- + other related factors
When an unmarried couple has a child, the parents automatically have equal rights if the father is on the child’s birth certificate. If not, the father must establish paternity, usually through DNA testing, in order to obtain custody/visitation rights. In either scenario, it is impossible to enforce these custody and visitation rights without a court order. Fathers are frequently alienated from their children because of the lack of a custody order. The Law Offices of Margot H. Beasley has extensive knowledge about paternity law and can help you establish a legal relationship with your child.
Discuss Your Situation With a Compassionate Family Lawyer and Get the Answers You Need to Navigate Your Situation
Do you need to speak with an experienced custody and child support attorney? Call (314) 727-5533 or fill out our online contact form to request a free initial consultation today.
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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
- Sarah D.Margot is TOUGH but reasonable. She will not let you get bullied by your EX and she always has your back. She not only wants what is best for her client but what is also best for the child caught in the middle of the drama. I wouldn't trust any other lawyer to handle my divorce. Margot is the one you want on your side.read moreread less
- EB U.There is one word that comes to my mind when I think about Margot and that is amazing! I was in a very abusive horrible marriage and once I retained Margot everything went a lot smoother! Margot is a very sweet kind lady but when needed she is a go-getter and real fighter. I felt like I could call and talk to Margot day or night if needed and she was always available for me. To say I came out on top is a major understatement, and I attribute that to Margot 1000%. I would recommend Margot to anyone who needs someone that is really going to be there for them in every aspect and fight as hard as she can to get what is fair! Thanks again Margot for all you did for me. Julieread moreread less
- Amanda D.YOU FOUND YOUR LAWYER!!!! I used a lawyer that made me feel worthless, insecure, and didn’t explain anything to me. I was confused and my life was miserable. I met Margot Beasley and EVERYTHING CHANGED!!! She was extremely personable – yet was strong and direct to the other party when needed. She has the skill to read others and be persuasive. This is a good thing because she is the one on the forefront and I needed her to show my other party why this or that made sense and needed to be executed. I truly believe I had exactly who I needed and what my case needed when I hired Margot Beasley as my lawyer! …. And here’s why:1) Margot Beasley has a very competitive rate – and is worth every penny!2) She is responsive! If she is in court or out of town or on another call she makes sure to communicate that to you and honors any date/time for a follow up call, meeting or email that you need.3) She has experience! She was knowledgeable as to what was mostly the outcome for all of my options I wanted to take. Her ability to draw reasonable, logical conclusions or assumptions from the information she had was extremely important to me. I could then make the most educated decision on what’s best for me and my family.4) At times we needed to dig into financials and thoroughly search the different scenarios/outcomes …. This is where her research and analytical skills were on point and gave my heart ease to rest easy that she would take care of the deep deep questions and find the correct answer I didn’t have time to do!5) This list could on and on but I can’t stop writing until I mention how strong Margot’s perseverance and commitment is. She knew exactly when to remind me to ride it out and wait because they are calling my bluff – or when it wasn’t going to be worth pursuing. YET she always let me know it was my decision which was refreshing.read moreread less
- LeslieHIRE HER! Margot is truly a one of a kind lawyer. She has compassion, drive, and pure determination to get the absolute best results for her clients. She exceeded our expectations and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome of our case. HIRE HER, you won't be disappointed.read moreread less
- GilThe High Road I am an attorney of over 25 years but I had no experience with divorce or family issues. Right before Christmas, 2016, I found myself removed from my home and without access to my minor children...based upon lies. Margot was recommended to me by another attorney. Opposing counsel was a very nasty person. Margot kept the case on track and refused to let focus be directed to the drama and false allegations. At first I questioned her approach, but I soon realized that she knew what she was doing. On the day that we started Trial, Margot Beasley destroyed opposing counsel. The overall result was much better than projected. I would strongly recommend Margot Beasley for any domestic matters. She Rocks! She is also very nice.read moreread less
- SarahMargot ROCKS! Margot is TOUGH but reasonable. She will not let you get bullied by your EX and she always has your back. She not only wants what is best for her client but what is also best for the child caught in the middle of the drama. I wouldn't trust any other lawyer to handle my divorce. Margot is the one you want on your side!!!read moreread less
- JulieSimply the BEST Margot is simply the best family law attorney I have ever dealt with! She came highly recommended to me by a friend. I was going through a very difficult time in my life with my divorce, and without Margot 24/7 commitment to help me I don’t know where I would be today. Margot is a true fighter when she needs to be. She is very straightforward and honest at all times. If I ever had a question I did not understand something she would go to all extremes to make sure I understood everything she was telling me. That is very important to me because at that time in my life I needed someone like that very direct and honest. I highly recommend Margot for any and all of your family law needs, you will not be disappointed!read moreread less
- Ms. H.Ms. Heather Rawls Margot was flexible and willing to meet with me outside of normal business hours to accommodate my schedule. She made time to meet with me with short notice to review the needs of my case. She was empathetic and caring, realizing that this was more than just a legal case, this was a heartbreaking upheaval in my life. I appreciated her willingness to work with me on a payment plan so that I could move forward as needed. She was honest and forthcoming about my legal case and helped me negotiate the best possible outcome.read moreread less
- GilbertAlimony case If you need a good attorney Margot Beasley I think is one of the best. She took my case witch was no chance to a slim chance of me winning. She was able to help me greatly. She is reasonable on her prices and will work with you on your payments. She has my upmost respect and admiration. If I ever need a attorney again Margot will be the first person I call. Thank you so much Margot Beasley.read moreread less
- JimmyMargo Beasley is a friend first! Ethical, compassionate, caring and fair are not usually words associated with a family law attorney...until now. I am grateful for the representation and results both myself and kids were awarded with the help and guidance from Margo. After a miserable and draining emotional and financial divorce even several years after there were serious child custody concerns along with disregard for financial responsibilities agreed to in parenting plan from my childrens mother. I was not interested in another ridiculous amount of money wasted in unnecessary litigation and lining “name brand” attorneys pockets who put their personal financial gains in front of what is best for my children. I was referred to Margo and after our initial consultation I knew things were going to be ok. Margo was compassionate and could relate to my concerns. She instructed me on what to do and what to to expect. In addition she gives great insight and advice on how the court will handle your situation. In other words she guided me on how to pick my battles and in the end how to do what was best for my kids in an affordable manor. Family law unfortunately is very draining. Both myself and my kids were proud to have Margo speak in our behave. I never thought I would consider a lawyer my friend. Today I consider Margo my friend then my attorney.read moreread less
- LeslieProfessional and caring Margo has been so great to work with. She’s been fair and honest with us though all we have gone through. She’s always there for advice as well as to do her job. She really listens to what we have to say and is always completely honest with us on what needs to be done and what she needs from us. We couldn’t ask for a better person to represent us.read moreread less
- Tracey B.Devoted and Compassionate My family and I have had the privilege of Margot providing us with legal advice and guidance during some difficult situations. Specifically pertaining to guardianship of my five year old granddaughter. While working with Margot I've witnessed the compassion, dedication, endless hours and loyalty that she possesses. I always felt that even when she was occupied with other clients she would always follow up within a timely manner which always put me at ease knowing their was constant communication. I would strongly recommend Margot Beasley to anyone looking for a strong willed fierce, yet compassionate and fair lawyer especially when it comes to family law as I believe she fights for your family as if it was her own.read moreread less
- JohnAmazing Attorney Margot helped me during the most difficult and stressful time in my life. She was available when I needed her throughout the entire process. She fought for my rights as a parent. She strives for the best outcome. My family and I are very grateful for her service.read moreread less
- JaimeHonest, Sincere, Intelligent and Kind Margot greeted me with open arms after I fired my previous attorney. He was pushing me to ask for things I didn't want all in the name of "playing the game". Margot doesn't play the game, she does it right. She is honest about what to expect, sincere in wanting to help achieve your goals, intelligent about the law (and those involved) and has a kind heart. My previous attorney caused more fights with my ex-husband than he fixed and Margot was able to bring us back to a solid middle ground that we could both agree on. I really appreciate her having my back when I needed someone the most. I've recommended her to several people and will always go to her when I'm in need.read moreread less
- GinnyExceptional Attorney Margot Beasley (Thank You So Much) For those of you that believe in an higher power (God) and (since I had to get a divorce), I prayed that he would help me choose the right attorney and I believe me he did by sending me to Margot. Notice I call her Margot and that is because she has become very dear to me. All my adult life I had been a strong, educated, advice giving role model to many people but when I found out that my husband had deceived me after years of marriage I fell apart. When I approached him in regards to his adultery he was defiant, verbally abusive and for the first time psychically abusive, he showed no remorse after years of often expressing and showing his love for me. I remember we watched the movie the" Note Book", together and cried together and vowed to grow old together but that was all erased by the willing decision made by him to cheat. You see I did not look as young as I did and my health began to fail me. We had beautiful grandchildren that I was more than willing to spend time with but he wanted something more to be young again and as he told me" you are just an old grandma" he could no longer see that I still had a sparkle in my eyes just for him. You see once a man or women betray the marriage bed by choosing to pick another berry or( lay with another) they turn their face from you and it is almost impossible to get their attention again. The trapping of adultery are so shinny and everyday living with your mate appears to be a burden. I am giving you so much back ground to let you know I was a broken women and when Margot heard my story she worked hard to get the respect and justice that I deserved. I was willing to give up but she wouldn't let me. I will forever be grateful to her she is a genius when it comes to defending her client in my opinion. This is my truth and rest assure if you employ her as your attorney to are getting the best!!!read moreread less
- LornaA great person, and an even better Lawyer After many, many negative experiences with attorneys in the past, I am truly grateful to have come across Ms. Beasley. Her professionalism and pure dedication to your case and experience as a client altogether, cannot be matched elsewhere. Night or day, I know that I can rely on Margot for the best advice, consultation, or plan of action, regardless of the nature of the situation. Margot is incredibly knowledgeable about the law, and expresses that in any client related issue. Additionally, her personable nature, friendliness, and tenacious attitude allows any client to feel secure and well represented.Again, I am grateful to have found such a great attorney and would highly recommend her to anyone.read moreread less
- anonymousReview Margo Beasley is a highly professional, highly motivated individual. She showed me the caliber of a person she is made of. I am very pleased with her ability, performance, and her honesty. She is a people person and someone you can work with. I am highly satisfied working with her.read moreread less
- Akp 9.YOU FOUND YOUR LAWYER!!!! I used a lawyer that made me feel worthless, insecure, and didn’t explain anything to me. I was confused and my life was miserable. I met Margot Beasley and EVERYTHING CHANGED!!! She was extremely personable – yet was strong and direct to the other party when needed. She has the skill to read others and be persuasive. This is a good thing because she is the one on the forefront and I needed her to show my other party why this or that made sense and needed to be executed. I truly believe I had exactly who I needed and what my case needed when I hired Margot Beasley as my lawyer! …. And here’s why:1) Margot Beasley has a very competitive rate – and is worth every penny!2) She is responsive! If she is in court or out of town or on another call she makes sure to communicate that to you and honors any date/time for a follow up call, meeting or email that you need.3) She has experience! She was knowledgeable as to what was mostly the outcome for all of my options I wanted to take. Her ability to draw reasonable, logical conclusions or assumptions from the information she had was extremely important to me. I could then make the most educated decision on what’s best for me and my family.4) At times we needed to dig into financials and thoroughly search the different scenarios/outcomes …. This is where her research and analytical skills were on point and gave my heart ease to rest easy that she would take care of the deep deep questions and find the correct answer I didn’t have time to do!5) This list could on and on but I can’t stop writing until I mention how strong Margot’s perseverance and commitment is. She knew exactly when to remind me to ride it out and wait because they are calling my bluff – or when it wasn’t going to be worth pursuing. YET she always let me know it was my decision which was refreshing.read moreread less
- anonymousMs. Heather Rawls Margot was flexible and willing to meet with me outside of normal business hours to accommodate my schedule. She made time to meet with me with short notice to review the needs of my case. She was empathetic and caring, realizing that this was more than just a legal case, this was a heartbreaking upheaval in my life. I appreciated her willingness to work with me on a payment plan so that I could move forward as needed. She was honest and forthcoming about my legal case and helped me negotiate the best possible outcome.read moreread less
- Amira F.From the moment I spoke to Margot on the phone, I knew immediately I wanted her to represent me in a family law matter. She's a professional who understands the systems and most importantly listens to her clients. I interviewed many attorneys in STL area and she was the only one that was attentive and understood the importance of my case. I am thankful to people like Margot who will stand by their clients and have their voices heard. I am so grateful to have found her, you will not regret your decision. Thank you Margot!!read moreread less
- Chrissy T.She’s real, she’s thorough, has a sense of humor, and she knows her stuff. 10/10 recommend.read moreread less
- Kelly M.I hope you never have to go through a contentious divorce but if you do you want Margot in your corner. I don't feel Margot is in it for the money. She worked with me on multiple occasions concerning payment. Margot truly wants to help you get through this very difficult time as undamaged as possible. Margot tells you the truth about your case as hard as it is to hear sometimes. I always felt she was fighting for me and my daughters and not just logging time. Margot doesn't quit and won't be intimidated by the other side. You could not ask for a better attorney to get you through one of the hardest times in your life. Margot is a God send when I needed a strong advocate in my corner.read moreread less
- Ashley B.I honestly wish I could give her more than 5 stars. Margot has been insanely attentive and super helpful with my court case. She was referred to me by one of my friends and I'm so grateful I found her. I was terrified about the entire process, but she's been able to easily explain things to me and provide so much comfort. I actually feel at ease with the case because I know she's handling it at the boss level she handles everything else!All of her office staff that I have been in contact with are so sweet too!She's definitely a fighter for her clients. She makes sure you understand everything. She's so kind. I couldn't have a better lawyer if I tried!read moreread less
- matthew g.Margot is the best! Fair, honest, and keeps things simple. Would recommend her to anyone!read moreread less
- anonymousHiring Margot was one of the smartest things I’ve ever done and I’m so thankful a friend referred her to me! My ex is narcissistic and extremely nasty so I knew taking him back to court for the thousands of dollars he owed me was not going to be easy. Margot and her staff were absolutely amazing from start to finish. Margot is tough but reasonable. She lays out the facts in laymen’s terms not legal jargon so I was able to make decisions based on reality. She knows exactly what to do in all situations and doesn’t back down. At the same time, she is extremely compassionate and understands what her clients are going through and she is a great listener! Believe me she got an earful from me and yet she always stayed focused on the end goal…taking the absolute best care of her clients and doing what’s right. Do yourself a favor and hire Margot as your attorney…you won’t regret it!read moreread less
- AustinWonderful As a physician Margot was absolutely respectful of my need for discretion and privacy. She is attentive and responsive and my outcome was wonderful. I strongly recommend Margot to anyone going through this difficult time.read moreread less
- Anthony H.Ms Beasley does great work with family law. Excellent attorney with her clients having priority. Very astute!read moreread less
- CHRISTIAN A.I'm so grateful for Margot! She is extremely personable, professional & patient. Divorce is never easy, however Margot & her team eased all of my concerns. She listens and is honest abt what to expect. She is extremely responsive. Every time I reached out, I heard back within 24 hours. I would recommend Margot over and over again. Thanks so much for everything.read moreread less
- Rebecca T.Margot is very responsive and always keeps me in the loop. My case was stuck for almost 2 years without results then I found Margot. What a difference. I would recommend Margot to anyone.read moreread less
- Iss M.Hiring Margot was one of the smartest things I’ve ever done and I’m so thankful a friend referred her to me! My ex is narcissistic and extremely nasty so I knew taking him back to court for the thousands of dollars he owed me was not going to be easy. Margot and her staff were absolutely amazing from start to finish. Margot is tough but reasonable. She lays out the facts in laymen’s terms not legal jargon so I was able to make decisions based on reality. She knows exactly what to do in all situations and doesn’t back down. At the same time, she is extremely compassionate and understands what her clients are going through and she is a great listener! Believe me she got an earful from me and yet she always stayed focused on the end goal…taking the absolute best care of her clients and doing what’s right. Do yourself a favor and hire Margot as your attorney…you won’t regret it!read moreread less
- Lauren M.Margot is AMAZING!!! 100% ABSOLUTE BULLDOG!! Hiring her was literally one the BEST DECISIONS of my life! I cannot thank her enough for all of her hard work and dedication to my case. 100% RECOMMEND her for any domestic/custody case you may have!. THANK YOU MARGOT!!!read moreread less
- Holly L.Margot & her team are thorough and have paid great attention to all the details. Margot is direct and honest yet sensitive & understanding. She has represented our every concern and has persistently fought hard for us. I can’t say that I have ever been this satisfied with an attorney before now.read moreread less
- Tara L.Margot is amazing! She is super responsive and honest but also tough. You certainly want her in your corner.read moreread less
- Johnny H.Margo is an absolute warrior when it comes to her profession. She has that "best friend" mentality that always lays it out straight for you. Margo is very personable, witty, and relatable. I could sense from the very beginning I made a great choice to go with her law firm. She is incredibly passionate and that's what I love most about her. She will do anything she can to make you a satisfied client. Divorce is never something anyone wants to go through however Margo made the entire experience much less stressful. I fully recommend Margo and her entire firm. They are very professional and an absolute pleasure to work with.read moreread less
- A M.YOU FOUND YOUR LAWYER!!!! I used a lawyer that made me feel worthless, insecure, and didn’t explain anything to me. I was confused and my life was miserable. I met Margot Beasley and EVERYTHING CHANGED!!! She was extremely personable – yet was strong and direct to the other party when needed. She has the skill to read others and be persuasive. This is a good thing because she is the one on the forefront and I needed her to show my other party why this or that made sense and needed to be executed.I truly believe I had exactly who I needed and what my case needed when I hired Margot Beasley as my lawyer! …. And here’s why:1) Margot Beasley has a very competitive rate – and is worth every penny!2) She is responsive! If she is in court or out of town or on another call she makes sure to communicate that to you and honors any date/time for a follow up call, meeting or email that you need.3) She has experience! She was knowledgeable as to what was mostly the outcome for all of my options I wanted to take. Her ability to draw reasonable, logical conclusions or assumptions from the information she had was extremely important to me. I could then make the most educated decision on what’s best for me and my family.4) At times we needed to dig into financials and thoroughly search the different scenarios/outcomes …. This is where her research and analytical skills were on point and gave my heart ease to rest easy that she would take care of the deep deep questions and find the correct answer I didn’t have time to do!5) This list could on and on but I can’t stop writing until I mention how strong Margot’s perseverance and commitment is. She knew exactly when to remind me to ride it out and wait because they are calling my bluff – or when it wasn’t going to be worth pursuing. YET she always let me know it was my decision which was refreshing.read moreread less
- AustinWonderful As a physician Margot was absolutely respectful of my need for discretion and privacy. She is attentive and responsive and my outcome was wonderful. I strongly recommend Margot to anyone going through this difficult time.read moreread less
- MelissaBest divorce attorney in St. Louis!!! Hiring Margot was one of the smartest things I’ve ever done and I’m so thankful a friend referred her to me! My ex is narcissistic and extremely nasty so I knew taking him back to court for the thousands of dollars he owed me was not going to be easy. Margot and her staff were absolutely amazing from start to finish. Margot is tough but reasonable. She lays out the facts in laymen’s terms not legal jargon so I was able to make decisions based on reality. She knows exactly what to do in all situations and doesn’t back down. At the same time, she is extremely compassionate and understands what her clients are going through and she is a great listener! Believe me she got an earful from me and yet she always stayed focused on the end goal…taking the absolute best care of her clients and doing what’s right. Do yourself a favor and hire Margot as your attorney…you won’t regret it!read moreread less
- Egwugwu P.Margaret Beasely is the best of the best! Margaret is extremely patient, understanding, knowledgeable, caring, attentive, awesome, professional, kind, respectful!!!! There are unlimited things to say about Margaret and her professionalism!! Margaret goes over and beyond!!read moreread less
- FI wish I hired Margot to handle my divorce and child custody battle instead of the train wreck attorney what I had before. I did my research and found Margot Beasley. I’m amazed at her insight in handling complex legal issues and grateful for her aggressive approach. She’s not only an excellent trial attorney, she truly cares for my child. She is an ethical, honest and highly knowledgeable, professional attorney and very client service-focused. She helped to deliver excellent outcomes in a very difficult and complex case. She went above and beyond for my case. She helped me fully understand the process, what my likely outcomes were, and made up for sloppy work by my ex’s attorney on several occasions. Furthermore, Margot always responded to me in a timely manner. I could not have asked for better representation. Without hesitation, I give Margot my highest recommendation. Above all, she is extremely generous in billing, given unbelievable discounts and affordable as well. If you're going through any family law issue, don’t waste your time and money, she is the person to call. I would give her 10 stars if I could.read moreread less
- Ben C.Margot was attentive to the details and proactive in her actions. She is very personable, and unlike other attorneys, actually available. This was a family court case I'd highly recommend her experience in this area was very helpfulread moreread less
- A E.Margot is an amazing lawyer and a wonderful person. Initially, my case was being handled by a different law firm; I am so lucky to have switched to Margot as my lawyer as she has all the key characteristics of a successful attorney—specifically, she is intelligent, detail oriented, hardworking, and responsive. My marriage was atypical in that I was married in a foreign country under Islamic law. Margot did excellent research on Islamic divorce and was able to effectively argue on my behalf in front of the judge. Whenever I would talk with Margot, I truly felt heard. In front of the judge, I felt that I had a true advocate and felt calm. Do not get fooled by the big law firms. Many of these firms do not care for their clients or even worse do not seek their best interest (such as by prolonging the case or having less capable associates handle the research/trial). Margot is the real deal—she is an exceptional, caring, and honest lawyer.read moreread less
- Catz R.When my ex-husband and his controlling girlfriend tried to sue me for sole custody of our son and child support, I knew I needed a smart and aggressive female family law attorney. I am so thankful I found Margot Beasley, she and her office staff are responsive, organized and ready to fight for your rights and the rights of your children.read moreread less