The amount of child support ordered by the courts is not always permanent. When there are significant changes in circumstances, either parent could ask the court to review child support and change the amount required.
If one parent learns that the other recently received a raise or secured a promotion, that could theoretically provide the basis for a child support modification. The courts can review a current support order and adjust the amount of support based on new family circumstances.
Good fortune can alter financial obligations
Determining how much child support is necessary requires a review of numerous details. The courts look at the number of children and the breakdown of parenting time. They look at how much income each parent earns and any unusual expenses associated with caring for their shared children.
Significant changes in circumstances could alter the amount of support mandated. A change in parenting time allocations or a child’s basic expenses could make a modification necessary. Shifts in income may also justify a review of the order.
In some cases, the party paying support could ask the courts to review the order and reduce their obligations when the recipient parent experiences positive changes in their income and professional status. Other times, the recipient parent asks the courts to review their financial circumstances when the parent paying substantially increases their income.
Pursuing a child support modification can help parents remain in compliance with their orders and better ensure that their children have all of their needs met consistently. Parents who believe that a child support modification may be necessary can review their existing order and the change in their circumstances with a skilled legal team to determine if petitioning the courts is a worthwhile step forward.
