Child support may be modified over time, as new financial situations or needs arise. Our child support attorney in Springfield, MO team at Shuler Law Firm, LLC is happy to answer your questions about child support, including the factors that influence an initial child support decision by a Missouri judge.
A divorce agreement may include child support. Child support is often paid by the non-custodial parent in divorce. While there is a form that allows you to calculate your payments online, there are numerous factors that could affect a child support agreement which include:
Child support is a child's right; not a parent's right. It is best to have an experienced lawyer on your side, whichever side of the question you may be on.
A parent cannot refuse to pay court-ordered child support, even if they feel it's unfair. A parent also may not avoid paying child support by intentionally not working. If the parent is unemployed by their own will, then the court will "impute" their income and generate an amount based on factors such as employment history, education, and training. This intent is not to punish but to hold the parent responsible for their actions.
The failure of a parent to support a minor child that the parent is legally obligated to help is a crime in the State of Missouri. In addition, Nonsupport may be charged as a felony if the obligated parent fails to pay six months within twelve months or has accumulated an arrearage over $5,000.
If you have experienced a substantial change in circumstances, then you may be eligible to request a modification of orders. Ensure that your substantial change has the potential to be permanent, as any temporary changes may not hold up in court. Valid changes in circumstances include:
If you wish to move forward with your modification request, you must file a letter to the FSD office in the county where the original child support order was decreed. This letter should contain your contact information, the case number, reasoning for modification, date of request, and your signature.
Parents of a child can establish paternity voluntarily at any time by filing an Affidavit Acknowledging Paternity. One parent can also file a paternity action at any point before the child turns 18. A child can pursue a paternity action between age 18 and age 21. If paternity is established, the father's name is placed on the birth certificate. Parents may take action for issues related to child custody / visitation and child support / medical support.
Choose Shuler Law Firm, LLC for premier advocacy from an experienced child support attorney in Springfield, MO. No matter how challenging your case may be, our firm is ready to fight for you and prepare a strong case on your behalf.
Contact us at (417) 288-4433 to begin with a free initial phone consultation regarding your child support case.