Modification of Child Support in Connecticut
Did You Know?
The modification of child support amounts is not usually an option just because one parent has remarried.
A Substantial Change in Financial Circumstances
The basic rule of thumb for a successful child support modification is whether there has been a substantial change in one or both parent's incomes or financial circumstances. This change may be either upward or downward, and either parent may request a modification of the child support order from the court.
Common examples of circumstances that may lead to a child support modification include:
- Job loss: If the paying parent loses income because of involuntary job loss, the child support amount may be decreased. If the custodial parent involuntarily loses a job, he or she may request an increase in child support.
- Promotion or raise: If either parent's earnings increase, the amount of child support may be changed.
- Child's medical condition: If the child has a medical condition that will require significantly more health care expenses over a period of time, a child support modification may be possible.
One circumstance that most likely will not lead to a child support modification is voluntary underemployment or unemployment. For example, if a parent leaves a steady full-time job to start a business and experiences a drop in income, that may not be grounds for a change in child support. Likewise, if a parent voluntarily quits their job, thus becoming unemployed, such a change will probably not be grounds for a child support modification.
Consult an Experienced Connecticut Child Support Attorney
Child support modifications can be relatively straightforward — if both parents agree. Even so, a formal modification document must be filed with the court.
If a dispute arises about a child support modification, however, it is critically important to get guidance from a knowledgeable child support lawyer as soon as possible. Without high-quality legal advice and representation, the financial impact on your child can be very high.
Since 1980, Attorney Daiga G. Osis, with offices in Fairfield, Connecticut, has guided clients through the child support modification process. If you have questions about child support modification, Connecticut's child support guidelines or a way to collect child support payments — contact the Law Offices of Daiga G. Osis for a free initial consultation.
Attorney Daiga G. Osis offers free initial consultations to clients with questions about child support modifications. To schedule your appointment, call 203.254.1215 or send an e-mail.
