Modifying a Child Support Order in Florida
When a child support order is agreed upon by parents or issued by the court, the purpose is for each parent to pay their share of their child’s daily living expenses as well as maintain their standard of living during and after a divorce. However, in the months and years after a child support order is issued, the circumstances may change for either the parents or the child, which may warrant a modification of the original support order. At The Soto Law Office, our experienced family law attorneys are prepared to assist in your modification claim. To learn more, call or contact our office today.
Requirements for Modification
In order to qualify for a modification of a child support order, the parent making the request for an increase or decrease in support must show that there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the original support order was filed. A substantial change in circumstances must be something that is significant, material, permanent, and unanticipated at the time of the initial child support order. Small changes or temporary changes do not warrant a modification in support.
What Qualifies as a Substantial Change?
There are many circumstances that may qualify as a substantial change depending on the specifics of the case. Some of the most commonly cited reasons for a modification in a Florida child support order include the following:
Permanent job loss
Significant promotion or pay raise
Serious medical issue for the parent or child
Significant changes in the child’s expenses
New family responsibilities of the parent paying support
Changes in the child custody agreement, and more.
If you are interested in learning more about whether the circumstances of your case qualify for a modification in child support, talk to the knowledgeable family law attorneys at our office today.
Call or Contact Us Today
Please note that Courts do not take petitions to modify child support lightly, so if you are considering requesting a modification of your current child support order you need a knowledgeable Florida family law attorney by your side. Call or contact The Soto Law Office today to schedule a consultation and learn more.