Child support is vital. It allows the parent that has custody of the children to provide for his or her children. It is also one of the most contentious issues that divorced or separated couples with children have to deal with.
Courts base their decisions for child support on the circumstances of the case. However, the circumstances of either party in the case can change. Unfortunately, not many people are aware that changes in their circumstances can result in modifications in child support payments. The following are some common situations in which you can request a modification.
- Disabilities that Affect IncomeIf you have suffered a disability that has resulted in a negative impact on your income, you may request the court to modify the child support payments. Remember that a disability won’t exempt you from paying child support. A court can however, adjust the payments to your new level of income.
- Changes in Your Child’s Health StatusCourts make childcare rulings based on the needs of the child. Special needs, such as daycare and medical treatments are considered in the determination of child care payments. However, if the child no longer needs this special care, the payments can be adjusted by the court.It is also important to note that child support payments can also be adjusted if the child’s healthcare needs change in the future e.g. if the child has new medical needs at a later date, the court may increase payments to meet these needs.
- Loss of Employment or IncomeIf you’ve lost your job or source of income, you can request a modification in the child support order. Courts can temporarily adjust payments for child support if the party making the payments has lost his or her source of income temporarily. In addition to this, the court can also adjust the payments depending on your new income level. If you are earning less than you did in your previous job, you’ll pay less in child support payments.
- Another ChildChild support payments can also be adjusted if either party has another child to support.
If you’re seeking a modification in child support payments, it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced family law attorney. Your attorney will help to determine whether your circumstances qualify for the modifications you’re seeking. Your attorney will also help you prove your reasons to the court when the time comes. Don’t struggle in silence.
