Children of separated parents in Ohio frequently rely on child support payments from noncustodial parents. Family court orders establish the amount of these payments, and only specific situations could enable a noncustodial or custodial parent to raise or lower the amount.
A job loss or substantial decrease in income could provide a sufficient reason for a noncustodial parent to approach a court and request a reduction of child support payments. This request will prompt the court to investigate claims about loss of income. After confirming the change in income, court officers will then judge if it reflects a significant hardship that might warrant a child support modification. Income losses deemed too low will probably cause the court to reject the request.
Custodial parents might wish to pursue more child support if the income of the noncustodial parent rises substantially. Another valid reason arises if a child’s expenses go up, especially due to medical issues. Custodial parents should not petition the court over small changes in income or expenses because the court might consider the request frivolous.
A person who needs guidance on this issue could discuss child support with an attorney. A legal review of the income and expenses outlined within the original divorce settlement could allow an attorney to offer an opinion about how a court might view a child support modification request. If the action appears viable, then an attorney could tell the person which financial statements to provide to the court. An attorney could organize this documentation and communicate the need experienced by the person to a judge. With legal support, a person might successfully alter a child support order and limit financial hardship.
