When you need to file a motion for modification of child support or respond to a petition, you don’t have to do it alone. You can hire a Norfolk child support modifications lawyer from Melone Hatley P.C. to help you.
We understand that this is an important and sensitive matter, and our Norfolk child support lawyers will advocate for you and your child. We will review your situation and tailor our services to suit your unique circumstances. Our attorneys have 90 years of combined experience.
Call us today to discuss your case in a free consultation with our Client Services Coordinator.
When to Consult Our Norfolk Child Support Modification Attorneys
Whether you are seeking a modification to your child support order or the other parent of your child is filing a motion, our Norfolk family lawyers will support you through the process. It’s never too early to consult with our legal team.
We have handled thousands of child support cases, and we will explore your options so that you can make an informed decision. We will listen to your concerns and goals and advocate for you throughout the process.
We will help you ensure the court and the other parent’s representatives handle your case according to the law and consider your child’s best interests when adjusting child support payments.
Our Lawyers Will File a Petition for Child Support Modification
Virginia Code § 20-108 allows you to request modification of a child support order. You must file your petition with the court and support your request with evidence of a qualifying change of circumstances.
Our legal team can handle all the necessary paperwork and compile supporting documents for your case. Similarly, if the other parent of your child petitions the court, we can review the circumstances they cite and determine an appropriate response to give during your hearing.
What Qualifies for a Modification of Child Support Orders?
Certain circumstances warrant a modification of child support orders, and the final decision rests with the court, which will consider both you and the other parent’s reasons. The court will prioritize your child’s well-being when making a determination, and our child support modification lawyers serving Norfolk will support your arguments using our knowledge of family law.
Take a look at some circumstances that can warrant a modification of child support payments:
- A decrease in income: If your income decreases by at least 25%, this may qualify for a modification.
- Job loss: Losing a job can significantly impact your financial situation, making it a valid reason to seek a modification.
- Inheritance: If you or the other parent of your child inherits substantial funds, this could affect child support payments.
- Increased childcare costs: A rise in childcare expenses by at least 25% can also justify modifying child support.
- Lack of healthcare provisions: If your existing child support order does not include provisions for health and dental insurance, the court may revise the order.
- Changes in your child’s medical needs: If your child develops a medical condition or disability, the court may modify the order to accommodate these needs.
- Increased insurance premiums: A rise in insurance premiums by at least 25% can be a basis for modifying child support.
- Age milestones: The court may adjust your child support order if your child reaches 18, graduates from high school, or becomes emancipated.
How Do Changes in Child Custody Affect Child Support Orders?
If your child custody arrangements change, the court may adjust child support payments. For instance, if you and your co-parent initially shared joint custody, but one of you moves away, the court may reassess your child support obligations.
Our Norfolk, VA, child support modifications attorneys will assist you in formally requesting modifications to your child support based on your new custody schedule. We will work so that the child support arrangements reflect the current goals and circumstances of both you and the other parent and, most importantly, your child.
The Difference Between Verbal Agreements and Court-Ordered Modifications to Child Support Orders
Verbal agreements between you and the other parent of your child can seem convenient and may provide flexibility in managing child support payments. However, these agreements lack legal standing. If your co-parent fails to uphold their end of the agreement, you would have no legal recourse.
When the court approves a formal modification, it becomes an official part of the child support order. Your co-parent is legally bound to adhere to the terms set forth in the order. If they fail, you can seek enforcement through the court, ensuring that your child’s best interests are prioritized.
Our skilled Norfolk, VA, child support modifications lawyer will protect your rights throughout the process.
Why Hire Our Norfolk, VA, Child Support Modifications Attorneys?
At Melone Hatley P.C., we prioritize our clients and are dedicated to finding effective solutions tailored to your unique circumstances. Our attorneys will listen to you closely to fully understand your situation so we can advocate for a solution that reflects your current circumstances and goals.
We never apply a standardized approach to child support cases because we understand that each family is unique. Take a look at our previous client testimonials to get an idea of our dedication to providing compassionate, comprehensive legal services to families.
Call Melone Hatley P.C. for Help From Our Child Support Lawyers
You are dedicated to your child’s well-being, so you deserve an attorney who will be dedicated to your child support case. At Melone Hatley P.C., our Norfolk child support modifications team is ready to represent you in court and advocate for you and your child.
Call us now to access your free, no-obligation consultation with our Client Services Coordinator. We can begin working on your case immediately.
