With today’s economy being the way it is, nothing is constant, especially when it comes to finances.
When a couple gets divorced in California and children are involved, the issues involved in child support are of critical importance. The divorce order will include the instructions regarding paying child support, the amount, and how the payments are to be made. Any changes to this order must be approved by the court and the law requires substantial change in circumstances in order for a change to occur.
The law recognizes that people’s circumstances can change after a divorce is finalized. Accordingly, people are able to modify most orders dealing with custody and visitation.
Extenuating circumstances can affect a person’s ability to pay, making it difficult, if not impossible to pay the required amount. These can include:
- Loss of employment
- New career
- Relocation
- Illness or disability
- Family emergencies
Child support modifications are much more common because the needs of children invariably increase as they get older.
The law recognizes that people’s circumstances can change after a divorce is finalized. Accordingly, people are able to modify most orders dealing with custody, support, and visitation.
Either parent may be able to petition to alter the amount of child support if there has been a significant change of circumstances. The custodial parent may seek an increase based on increased income of the other parent or changes to the state support guidelines. The non-custodial parent may seek a reduction if their income has been reduced through no fault of their own, such as unemployment or a downturn in business.
If you have experienced a significant change in your life, and as a result need to modify some part of your divorce or custody agreement, do not hesitate to contact an experienced family law attorney as soon as possible so they can begin working on your modification.
Protect yourself and your children by making sure that all changes to final orders are approved by the court.
