Money Tight? When To Request Child Support Modifications In Fort Lauderdale

As a parent, fluctuations in income and benefits can jeopardize your ability to provide for your child. Getting a child support order in Fort Lauderdale helps protect your financial security, but what worked initially may no longer suit your present situation. Our Fort Lauderdale child support attorney explains your rights regarding modifications and when you may be entitled to request additional amounts as part of a court order.
Your Rights Regarding Child Support Modifications In Fort Lauderdale
Parents are legally required to provide for their children. In cases of divorce or with single parents, the Florida Statutes dictate child support payments based on each party’s income, their child’s needs, and the amount of time they spend in each parent’s home in determining a reasonable amount.
Once a child support order is in place, both parties must follow. If the other parent refuses to pay, they could be subject to wage garnishment and other strict child support enforcement efforts. What if they pay the required amount but it fails to cover the costs associated with raising your child? In this case, you may be able to request modifications.
Either parent can petition the Broward County Family Court to review and adjust the child support order. However, they must demonstrate significant changes in circumstances that impact their own or the child’s financial needs. These changes must be:
- Substantial, in that they represent significant changes in income or expenses;
- Involuntary, meaning you didn’t quit your job or make other intentional changes;
- Permanent, resulting in changes in finances over an extended period, rather than temporarily.
The judge in your case will review the evidence presented by each side and evaluate these three factors to determine whether child support modifications are reasonable and necessary.
Common Reasons to Request Child Support Modifications In Fort Lauderdale
Once you get a child support order through the Broward County Family Court, it generally remains in place until the child graduates high school or turns 18. Circumstances can change significantly over this period. Common reasons for requesting child support modifications in Fort Lauderdale include:
- You suffered a job loss or other drastic reduction in income;
- You get diagnosed with health conditions that impact your ability to work;
- Your child’s needs increase, such as if they require additional amounts to meet educational or health care costs;
- There has been a change in child custody arrangements, resulting in the child spending considerably more time in your home.
In some cases, the paying parent may undergo changes in circumstances that prompt child support modifications. This includes changes in their income, property, and assets, or the birth of another child.
To Request Modifications, Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Child Support Attorney
Requesting child support modifications is never easy, and you must meet strict requirements in order to get any changes approved by the court. Fort Lauderdale child support attorney Sandra Bonfiglio works with clients to ensure payments reflect the current circumstances and that they receive any additional amounts owed. To request a consultation, contact our office today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.30.html
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family