How to handle Ex seeking child support reduction

children and divorce

While a court appearance dealing with children and divorce can be unsettling, it should not be fretted. One can handle an ex-husband's / ex-wife's divorce court child support filing alone, without attorney representation.

Instructions

1. File your own court response, no lawyer needed! No special form is needed to file a response. A simple Word document will do. If you do need assistance, visit your county Circuit Clerk office and the representatives should be happy to assist you.

2. 

   Be prepared. Have copies of income statements / unemployment benefits to prove earnings.

3. Prepare copies of all medical / dental costs that should be split equally

4. Prepare copies of extra - curricular activities that should be shared expenses

5. 

   Prepare copies of school expenses (registration, books, supplies, clothes).

6. Be confident! While the ex may be asking for a reduction in child support, the judge will not change the original court order unless there has been a significant change in earnings. Even the original child support order based on ex's salary 5 years ago, won't change to reflect his yearly pay increases since the amount taken out falls within the child support guidelines (28 - 30%). Search the internet for a child support calculator to see if an increase / decrease is worth fighting for in court.

Tips & Warnings

• Most attorneys offer an initial office visit free of charge. Use it! Seek a qualified divorce attorney / child custody lawyer and ask their advice.

• Court dates may not be available right away. Be prepared to schedule a court date 2 months or more out.

Resources

• Free Clipart Images