Child Support

Florida Statute 61.30(1) (b) provides a guideline for when child support can be granted. This is the statutory language: “The [childsupport] guidelines may serve as the basis for proving substantial changes in circumstances [a substantial shift in circumstances could mean any number or changes at work]. A modification to an existing order can be granted. [remember, a modification can only occur if you have an existing order that requires you to pay child support. The statutory requirements are now clear. However, the court must prove a substantial change of circumstances by proving that there is a difference between the current monthly obligation (orally ordered by the Department of Revenue) and the amount set forth in the guidelines. What is the best time to contact a Child Support lawyer? The following is an example of a situation: You have filed a Supplemental [after your case has reached a final judgement] petition for modification to timesharing, parental liability, and child support. If your case results allow you to spend more time with your children over the weekend, you may be eligible for a reduction of child support payments. This assumes that your income isn’t higher than the income of the other parent. The number of overnights that each parent spends with their children in accordance with a court order is a major factor in determining the amount of child support the payor owes to the payee [recipient]. Modifying child support in Florida can be a serious legal matter and requires careful analysis and financial disclosures.

Substantial change in circumstances
As stated previously, the main criteria for modifying child support is whether there have been substantial changes in your financial and employment circumstances. You may experience substantial changes in your circumstances if your work hours are cut or your salary is reduced. Another example is when daycare ceases because the child starts elementary school. This can also lead to significant changes in your financial situation. This could result in a modification to Florida child support and lower monthly support obligations for the payor. Child support calculations can also be affected by the fact that one parent pays for their children’s insurance or increases his/her health insurance. The support obligation could be affected by changes in the prices of many insurance services.
Call us to discuss representation for your modification action when you need to talk to a Child Support lawyer. Call us at 305-244-7775 to discuss your modification action.