Significant changes in your financial situation can necessitate adjustments to your child support obligations. Whether your income increases, such as through a substantial raise, or decreases due to job loss, modifications may be required. To understand the process of requesting a child support modification in Massachusetts, please continue reading and contact an experienced Bristol County Child Support Lawyer today.
How is Child Support Determined?
First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that child support is designed to provide financial assistance to the child and the custodial parent to ensure the child’s well-being. The non-custodial parent is typically ordered to pay child support to help cover the child’s basic living expenses.
Massachusetts child support calculations heavily rely on the parents’ combined income, the number of children, and other relevant factors. The Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines Worksheet serves as the primary tool for determining the initial support amount. However, judges retain the authority to modify this base amount on the unique details of each case. Child support calculations will consider numerous factors, including:
- The child’s age and health
- The child’s needs
- The child’s education
- The cost of healthcare
- The cost of childcare
- Each parent’s earning capacity and work history
- Parenting time
- Any special needs ot the child
- Voluntary unemployment or underemployment
Can I Stop Paying Child Support if I Lose My Job?
If you lose your job, it doesn’t automatically relieve you of your child support obligations. Child support orders are legally binding and remain in effect until a court modifies the terms or terminates them. If your income has decreased as a result of unemployment, it’s imperative to take immediate action to avoid falling into arrears and facing significant legal consequences. It’s advisable to connect with an experienced attorney who can assist you in petitioning the court for a modification of your child support order.
You should note that you will have to demonstrate a substantial change in your financial circumstances to warrant a modification. The court will assess your situation and might alter the amount you need to pay based on your current income and the needs of your child. You will need to prove that you did not lose your job due to your fault, such as quitting voluntarily. In addition, you must demonstrate that you have made an effort to seek new employment or income sources.
If you fail to seek a modification, it can lead to the accumulation of unpaid support. Non-compliance with your child support obligation can result in various enforcement actions, including the court withholding wages, license suspension, or even time behind bars for contempt.
If you require assistance with any matter relating to child support in Massachusetts, please don’t hesitate to contact The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C., to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you.
