Changes in income, the need for daycare to return to work, health insurance issues or special expenses and changes in alimony or taxes can all trigger the need for a modification of an existing child support order.
Specialized Attorneys
When this happens, parents in Duval, FL, need to meet with a child support lawyer to discuss their options moving forward. This is true for either parent in the case of an upward change in finances, or when there is a decrease in income, or any other qualifying factors.
By meeting with these specialized attorneys, it will be relatively easy to determine if the change meets the criteria required by the court to be considered for a modification of an existing child support order. Once confirmed, the attorney can then begin the process of applying for the modification with the court.
Step One
The child support lawyer will need to file a petition with the court that is known as the Supplemental Petition to Modify Child Support. This petition then has to be served to the other parent. It must be completed and served correctly, so an attorney is essential in the process.
There may be the requirement for mediation, or the case may be heard by a judge. Typically, these types of hearings will be in front of a Hearing Officer or a Magistrate.
In some situations, particularly if the Florida Department of Revenue is not currently involved in the Duval, FL child support, there may be additional steps required. This can include additional hearings with the agency where both parents will need to provide current information on their financial information, just as they will also have to provide before going to court.
A child support lawyer will be both parents to consult with before making any efforts to change the current order. Mistakes can easily occur in these documents and filings that can have significant consequences and can end up resulting in significant costs to correct the issue.
