Child Support Modifications Attorney in Vancouver, Washington

During a martial dissolution – legal separation or divorce – that involves children, the parents often create quality child support arrangements. The purpose of the child support agreement is to cater to the living expenses, financial needs, and other expenses associated with raising their children. However, changes in circumstances over time can make the original child support agreement inconsistent with the child's needs. In such situations, either parent can seek the modification of a child support order. 

If you want to modify the amount or terms of an existing child support agreement, speaking with an experienced Washington State family law attorney is can be extremely beneficial. At Keystone Family Law, we have devoted our career to advising and guiding clients in the legal matters of family law, divorce, and child support. As your legal team, we understand how stressful these times can be, which is why we are here to help. 

Our reliable team will advocate for you and your child's best interests and help you achieve the most favorable outcome in your post-judgment modification petition. Keystone Family Law proudly serves clients across Vancouver, Washington, and throughout all the cities in Clark County. 

Understanding Child Support Modifications  

When there is an existing child support agreement, either parent can file a post-decree motion or formal request that the family court should increase or decrease the amount of child support payments. The process involved in seeking such adjustments is often referred to as child support modification. 

The major purpose of seeking a child support modification is to ensure that the amount received or paid as child support is consistent with the child's current needs. In most cases, either parent can file the petition for a child support modification. 

Child Support Modifications in Washington State 

In order to modify a child support order in Washington State, the requesting parent must show the following: 

• There has been a substantial change in economic circumstances since the existing support order was made (if you’re filing the petition less than a year). 

• The current child support payments cause serious financial distress to you or the child. 

• The child's age has increased, and the previous calculation is no longer applicable. 

• The child has turned 18 years old but needs support to complete high school. 

Common Scenarios for Modifications   

Some common scenarios where seeking child support modification may be necessary include: 

• Unemployment or involuntary loss of job. 

• A substantial increase in income. 

• A significant decrease in income. 

• Getting a much higher-paying job. 

• An increase or decrease in the cost of childcare. 

• Changes in the other parent's income. 

• Increased or reduced costs of health insurance and medical needs. 

• A permanent disability. 

• Change in parenting time or visitation schedule. 

• Incarceration in county jail or state prison. 

• The child's needs have increased. 

• Deployment for active military duty. 

• Increase in family size – more children to support.

If you're considering filing a request to modify an existing child support agreement, you should reach out to a knowledgeable family law attorney for dependable legal help. Your legal counsel can tell you about the modification process and help you navigate key decisions. 

How to Modify Child Support Payments  

Here are the steps involved in modifying a child support decree: 

• Hire an experienced attorney to guide you through the process. 

• Obtain and complete the required forms. 

• Gather and submit necessary documentation to prove changes in circumstances. 

• File a motion to adjust or modify support with the court. 

• Serve your child's other parent with a copy of your filed forms. 

• Attend the court hearing, submit evidence, and present your case. 

• Finalize your case and receive a verdict. 

• If you're not satisfied with the court's decision, you can file an appeal. 

A seasoned Washington State child support modifications attorney can help file your petition, represent you diligently at the hearing, and advocate for your child's best interests. 

Factors Considered by the Court  

Here are some factors that the court may consider when deciding whether to approve or deny your child support modification request: 

• The child's needs. 

• The age of the child or children. 

• Changes in the income of one or both parents. 

• The number of children in the household. 

• Whether the child wishes to attend college after high school. 

• Any associated extraordinary medical expenses. 

• Whether parenting time has changed. 

• Other factors deemed necessary by the court. 

A dedicated lawyer can argue diligently on your behalf and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. 

Work With a Practiced Family Law Attorney 

Changing a child support order often involves a lot of challenging procedures and legal paperwork. Nonetheless, if you believe that circumstances have changed since the existing child support agreement was made and you're requesting modification, consulting with a practiced family law attorney is imperative for detailed guidance. 

At Keystone Family Law, we are here to give trusted and comprehensive legal guidance that fits your specific needs. We will do everything we can to seek the best possible result in regard to your best interests.