St. Charles Child Support Modification Lawyer

Unforeseen situations, such as the loss of a job or a car accident resulting in serious injuries to either the parent or the child, can warrant a modification in child support. Some parents cease paying child support or pay less than is required as a result of these unforeseen situations. If you just stop paying or do not make the full payment, you may face criminal charges of non-support.

Because of the legal challenges that these cases entail, you’ll need a St. Charles County child support modification lawyer to look out for your best interests in your family court case 

If you or a loved one needs to amend an existing child support agreement, contact Shea Kohl Law, LC now at (636) 946-9999 to have your case evaluated.

What is Modification? 

The word “modification” simply signifies “a change.” Certain terms of the agreement may be formally filed in court for modification once the child custody and child support amount have been determined. A court order can be changed by either parent. However, both parents can consent to a modification of the order. 

We can assist when changing situations necessitate the modification of family law court orders. We can also help if you need to block a modification that will have a negative impact on you and your family. If there is a significant and continuing change in circumstances, and depending on how a previous agreement was phrased, child custody, visitation, and support orders may be changed. 

Changes to earlier agreements or legal orders might be made amicably or through a lawsuit. In general, we’ve found that the best solutions are reached through civil, face-to-face discussions with a family law attorney present. Both parties are more likely to adhere to the terms of the new agreement if they reach an agreement in good faith. If this isn’t possible, we’ll take your case to court and fight to uphold your rights.

Reasons for Child Support Modifications

If specific conditions are met, child support orders in Missouri might be modified. When parents can establish that the changes are required and in the child’s best interests, Missouri courts can grant child custody modifications. 

In order to do so, the parent must show that conditions have changed after the first order was issued. The parent must also confirm that the old order does not promote the child’s best interests in the new situation. 

Child support may be modified for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to: 

•    Through a Form 14 recalculation, the present child support amount could be changed by 20%.
•    Changes in the parents’ financial situation
•    Parents’ financial requirements and resources
•    A parent’s marriage/remarriage
•    Children’s financial requirements
•    Growing children’s changing needs
•    Relocation
•    Death

If the non-custodial parent marries again and has additional dependent children, for example, a change in child support may be required. This parent may request that the court reduce their child support obligation for one child in order to boost support for the other children. Likewise, the custodial parent may require increased child support to assist with the costs associated with rising children’s needs.

How to Modify Child Support in St. Charles 

A court can make modifications or revisions to an existing child support order if there is an ongoing change in circumstances that makes the present child support order unrealistic. If the other parent objects to your request to change the amount, you will both have to appear in court. 

You can take specific steps to increase your chances of a favorable result. 

1. Before going to court hearing, call the court clerk to make sure the other parent is informed of the proceeding. You can also check to see if you’ve filed all of the essential legal documents. 
2. Make sure you have all of the necessary evidence, including receipts for the relevant expenses and any other papers you might need to back up your claims.
3. Make certain you understand the details of your case. When defending your case, this will help you provide pertinent, well-informed, and convincing arguments.
4. Ensure that all of your witnesses are on hand to back your cause. Everyone should wear appropriate attire. When it comes to clothing for a court appearance, business casual is a safe bet. 
5. Arrive early at the court so you have enough time to get through the security protocols and prepare for the hearing. When dealing with anyone you meet, be courteous. 

Modification proceedings are the most difficult forms of family court cases in Missouri. When submitting a modification case, meticulous planning is essential. If you’re thinking about changing your child support order, you should talk to an experienced St. Charles child support lawyer.

Do I Need a Lawyer in St. Charles to Modify Child Support? 

Child support modification is a time-consuming process that involves a lot of paperwork and documentation. There are several aspects that go into requesting a change, and grasping the legalities is difficult. A qualified St. Charles child support attorney may be able to assist you through the maze and represent you in the best possible way, depending on your specific case facts.

Consult an experienced St. Charles, Missouri modification lawyer 

To give you peace of mind, our St. Charles modification lawyers at Shea Kohl Law, LC may be able to help you or a loved one change an existing child support agreement, child visitation agreement, or any other support orders. 

To schedule a consultation, please contact our office by calling (636) 946-9999.