Nevada Divorce With Children — Custody & Support
Custody, child support, and parenting plans when children are involved in an Nevada divorce
How custody is determined §125C.0035
Courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors including the child's wishes (if of sufficient age and capacity), any nomination of a guardian by a parent, domestic violence history, and which parent is more likely to allow frequent contact.
Types of custody
- Legal custody — the right to make major decisions about the child's education, health care, and welfare
- Physical custody — where the child lives day-to-day
- Joint custody — both parents share legal custody, physical custody, or both
- Sole custody — one parent has primary decision-making authority or residential time
Child support §425.140
Nevada uses an percentage-of-income model to calculate child support.
- Based on percentage of obligor's gross monthly income
- Tiered schedule (NAC 425.140): one child — 16% of the first $6,000 of monthly gross income, 8% of $6,001–$10,000, 4% above $10,000; two children — 22%/11%/6%
- Minimum payment of $100/month; cap applies for high earners
- Income can be withheld directly from the paying parent's employer
The parenting plan
Most Nevada courts require a written parenting plan that addresses:
- Regular custody and visitation schedule
- Holiday and vacation time allocation
- Transportation arrangements and exchange locations
- Decision-making authority for education, health, and extracurricular activities
- Communication protocols between parents
- Relocation restrictions and notice requirements
Temporary orders during the divorce §125.040
Courts may issue temporary orders for maintenance, child support, cost of suit, and property during pendency of the divorce. Temporary custody and support orders typically remain in effect until the final decree is entered.
Modifying custody later
The court may at any time modify or vacate its custody order; a joint custody order may be modified or terminated if it is shown that the best interest of the child requires the modification.
Ready to Talk to a Lawyer?
Submit a short intake form and a participating Nevada attorney who handles this type of matter may reach out to you. No commitment required.
Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.
If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.
Related guides
- Based on percentage of obligor's gross monthly income
- Tiered schedule (NAC 425.140): one child — 16% of the first $6,000 of monthly gross income, 8% of $6,001–$10,000, 4% above $10,000; two children — 22%/11%/6%
- Minimum payment of $100/month; cap applies for high earners