When a court orders a parent to pay child support, it is typically based on the current financial situation of both parents and the needs of the child. However, circumstances change, and child support payments can be modified depending on the situation at hand. Modification is a useful tool to adhere to any change in your family’s child support arrangement.
Why Would I Want to Modify My Child Support?
There are many reasons why a modification of child support could be the right legal remedy for your child support needs. For example, if the paying parent loses their job or becomes incapacitated to the point of being unable to work. Other situations that justify modification could involve the child’s needs changing. For example, extra medical or educational expenses that require further financial support from either parent. Whatever the reason, if you feel that a modification in child support could be the right fit for you and your family, you are in the right place.
How Can I Modify My Child Support?
In Illinois, modification can be changed if there is a substantial change in circumstances. This change could not have been anticipated at the time of the original support order being issued. Here are some factors that the court may consider in a case to modify child support:
- Change in employment status of either party, if that change was made in good faith (i.e., the individual did not quit to avoid paying child support).
- The efforts made by the party receiving maintenance to become self-supporting.
- Any impairment of the present and future earning capacity of either party.
- The tax consequences of the maintenance payments upon the respective economic circumstances of the parties.
- Increase or decrease in each party’s income.
- Any other factor that the court expressly finds to be just and equitable.
- Changes in the needs or best interests of the child.
Upon experiencing a substantial change in circumstances, the first step is to contact an experienced family law attorney. At Glasgow & Olsson, our talented and dedicated family law attorneys are experienced in modifying child support orders. Our attorneys can help you to file a petition with the court to request a modification of the child support order, in which we would explain to the court reasons why a modification is necessary.
What Evidence Do I Need for Modification?
Working with our family law attorneys will help guide you through the evidence-collecting process, as it varies greatly from case to case. However, some basic examples of evidence in a child support modification case can include financial statements, medical bills, pay stubs, and any other document proving a change in circumstances.
Glasgow & Olsson is Here for You
Modifying child support arrangements can be a necessary step when circumstances change within your family. Where there has been a substantial change in your life, Glasgow & Olsson is here to help. If you need representation for a divorce or child support matter in Cook County, Glasgow & Olsson is here to help. When you need an attorney, experience matters. Contact us today to learn how our experience can get you the results you deserve.