How to Request Child Support Modification
A modification to your child support agreement may be necessary if you have to add or remove a child from the order, extend the time necessary for child support or request a modification to the amount to be paid, for example. Child support laws vary by state, but generally you will need to complete a modification form at your local court, and you'll need to be prepared to argue your case in court.
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Things You'll Need
- Reason to request modification of child support.
- Internet (optional)
- Transportation (may apply)
- Documentation of cause
Instructions
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Contact your local court and ask the clerk what forms you will need to fill out, and whether you can complete them online or if you will have to pick them up at the court.
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Complete the required forms. Generally, you will need to provide both the plaintiff's and defendant's names, current addresses and telephone numbers and other basic information.
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Pay the court's filing fee when you return the forms to the clerk, which most courts require. Ask for a writ of summons to appear in court. Keep copies for your records.
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Serve the other party with the papers you filed and the writ of summons. You may need to hire a local process server to do this if you can't get your local sheriff's office to do it.
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File a request for hearing or proceeding with the local clerk, which is usually required to get a court date.
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Show up at the hearing on time and bring evidence that the modification is necessary. Examples of evidence include pay stubs, tax returns and information about child-related expenses.
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Tips & Warnings
This article is not intended to provide legal advice and offers no promise of success in achieving child support modification.
References
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