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When to modify a child support order after divorce

On Behalf of | Nov 15, 2018 | Divorce |

It is only natural that the majority of the planning during a divorce goes into the one most important product of a marriage, the children. Child support agreements are a vital part of the divorce process. Over time, there may be situations that arise that cause a modification to this carefully planned agreement to be necessary. In Connecticut, there are a few basic circumstances that may cause a family court to approve an adjustment to an existing child support agreement.

Change in income is one of the most common reasons for a child support modification. If a parent’s income increases, or if he or she receives a large sum of money such as an inheritance, that parent may be expected to pay more for the children’s care than in the original agreement. If a parent’s income decreases, he or she may petition the court to have his or her child support obligation decreased.

Special expenses may warrant a need for a modification to a child support agreement. As a child grows, he or she may need braces or have other medical procedures. If he or she becomes active in sports or other extracurricular activities, there are additional expenses to cover lessons and supplies. These new expenses would be a reason for an adjustment to the child support agreement to specify each parent’s portion of the increased financial need.

A divorced parent may become married again and may have additional children. When this happens, the parent may request a modification to the original child support agreement. He or she may request to have his or her financial responsibilities toward the original children decreased so that he or she can provide financial support for subsequent children.

While a lot of care and consideration is involved in designing a child support agreement, all parties must acknowledge that there will likely be changes to it over time as needs change. Some of these changes may be permanent, and others may be temporary. With the help of a seasoned Connecticut family law attorney, the parents can work together to come to an agreement that is in the best interest of the children at the current time. After all, the needs of the children will continue to be the top priority long after the divorce is complete.