Respectfully request advice as newly divorced dad

ANY money paid before a final order is reached and signed by a judge will not be validated as child support. That's why a "LOT" of dads don't pay anything until the final order is signed......and I don't agree with that. It's not right. Your daughter doesn't stop needing support in the interim before the final order is signed. I just figured my own at 21% and paid before hand and just "said goodbye" to that money. The state never knew about it other than me showing the judge the cancelled checks. I agree though, you need to go through the system. That way, there's a legitimate record of payments. Also, you're assuming she's getting custody. Why don't you try to get custody? Lastly, don't assume she's going to play nice. She won't. Hope for the best but prepare for the worst, because it's coming. Go talk to an attorney this week, John. Kitty and I will be praying for yall.