As the old saying goes, “Change is the only constant.” This is as true in the area of Massachusetts child support as it is in any other area of life. What worked for you and your child years ago may no longer be feasible or fair.
Depending on the details of your situation, you may be able to reduce your child support obligation.
Maybe the family courts ordered you to pay a certain amount each month, and at the time, it wasn’t a burden. You had a high-paying job, your expenses were low and you had no real financial concerns.
Now, however, things may be different. Maybe you were laid off, maybe you needed surgery and now have exorbitant medical bills to pay or maybe you are facing other financial challenges.
According to the website of the Massachusetts Judicial Branch, you can seek a child support modification for a number of different reasons. Here are a few of the most common:
- Your health insurance costs have risen, or you no longer have health insurance.
- You are currently paying more to your child’s other parent than is recommended by the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines.
- Custody arrangements have changed, and your child is regularly spending more overnights with you than before.
- You are unemployed or have been forced to settle for a lesser-paying job.
- You have experienced another type of “material and substantial change in circumstances.”
Every situation is different, so it makes sense to consult an experienced divorce and family law attorney in your area to learn more.
