As a parent, you have an obligation to provide financial support for your child. Between housing, clothing and other essentials, it costs more than $200,000 to raise a child from birth to 18 in Florida.
But sometimes life circumstances change, along with your financial situation. Therefore, is it possible to request a modification in your child support orders?
Legal grounds for child support modification
In Florida, you can request a child support modification if circumstances change since the original order was issued. This may include:
- A significant increase or decrease in either parent’s income
- Loss of a job or major change in employment status
- Increased expenses for the child due to medical needs, education or extracurricular activities
- Changes in the time-sharing arrangement or living situation
Furthermore, the change must be substantial, involuntary, and permanent to be considered by the court.
To prove you case, you will need strong documentation, such as:
- A financial affidavit outlining your current income, expenses, assets and liabilities
- Recent pay stubs, tax returns and any other income sources
- Medical records if the modification is due to increased medical needs
- Employment records that show a job loss or changes in employment status
To start the process, you must obtain and complete a “Petition for Modification of Child Support.” Submit the petition, along with supporting documentation to the court clerk. You will then need to serve the other party with a copy of the petition and a court summons. The court will then hold a hearing where you can present your case to the judge.
The court will carefully review your petition, supporting documentation and arguments from both parties and decide whether the requested modification is justified. It’s imperative that you have someone who can assist you with your petition and argue on your behalf in court. That provides your best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.
