Can you seek changes to child support orders after a divorce decree in Louisville, North County or anywhere in Louisville? The general answer to this question is “yes” but you must have a reason for requesting an increase or decrease and you must be able to prove to the Court that a substantial change in circumstances or the “Status Quo” since the divorce has occurred. This is why it is so important to consult the Divorce and family law attorneys at Dodd & Dodd if you have questions regarding post-decree modifications to child support.
Changes to child support orders after a divorce decree in Louisville are a common request of the Family Courts in Louisville. However, our Family Court dockets are heavily backlogged, especially after the impact of the pandemic. Therefore, you not only have to file a case seeking the desired changes in child support, you have to provide the Court with evidence of the substantial change(s) which require the Court’s attention and consideration.
One of the most common reasons to seek changes to child support orders after a divorce decree is a substantial increase or decrease (more than + or – 10%) in the income of the payor of child support. Has the payor recently lost their job? Has a change in the economy affected the earnings of a sales professional or employee? Has exceptional performance resulted in a substantial raise or promotion at work? Has there been a substantial change in the amount of time the payor is spending with the child(ren)?
Another common reason is a substantial change in the needs of a supported child. This might pertain to a medical condition, special needs, or even the fact that a supported child has reached the age of majority.
If the parties agree upon the change the process can usually be straight forward when managed by our office. The Court must approve any agreed upon changes. Making changes to how you pay child support without supporting Court Orders opens the payor up to substantial legal risk. If you need to request an increase or decrease in existing child support orders we invite you to review the strong recommendations of our former clients and contact us or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced divorce and family law attorneys.
