Child Support Modification in Fort Lauderdale, Florida—When Can Awards Be Changed?

In Florida, in order for a child support modification to be approved by the court, a significant change in circumstance must have taken place. Yet, many parents are unaware of what constitutes a “significant” change. If you are receiving child support or are paying child support and would like to make a child support modification, it is often a good idea to speak to a family law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida like Kemi King with Kinglindsey, P.A. Law Offices who can assist you in building the strongest possible case.

So, when can child support awards be changed? Here are some important life events that may constitute significant changes under Florida law.

1.      Job loss. If either parent loses a job, a child support modification may be required. According to the Florida Department of Revenue, the loss of income or an increase in income may qualify you for a child support modification hearing. The courts will review you and the other parent’s income and consult with child support guidelines based on the revised amounts.

2.      Increase in income. If you or the other parent gets a significant raise or receives a new job where his or her income is higher, a child support modification may be required. Under Florida law, parents are required to provide their children with a standard of living in line with their income. If you or the other parent earns more money, your children deserve to benefit from this improvement in circumstance.

3.      Changes in children’s expenses. Childcare expenses change as children grow. For instance, a younger child may require regular daycare, while an older child may need money to pay for health care needs. If your child’s needs substantially change, a child support modification can ensure that your child’s needs are met.

4.      Changes in circumstances must not be voluntary. According to the Florida Child Support Calculator, parents cannot seek a child support modification if they voluntarily quit a job, or change jobs. The changes in circumstances must be involuntary in order to qualify. For instance, childhood expense increases such as new health care costs may qualify, while one parent’s decision to enroll the child in optional violin lessons may or may not qualify depending on the circumstances of the case.

5.      Increases must be 15% or $50 for a child support modification to be heard by a court. Small changes in needs or income won’t get you a hearing. However, if the changes are within the 15% or $50 range, your case may be considered.

Modifying child support is not always easy. The courts tend to favor agreements that have already been made unless a strong case is made to change those agreements. If you believe you have a good reason to change your child support payments, it is a good idea to hire a family law attorney to help you build the strongest case possible for the judge. A child support modification law firm like http://kinglindsey.com can review all circumstances and keep you informed about your rights.