San Diego Child & Spousal Support Lawyers

Modification of Support

Child and spousal support may be modified if necessary. Modification of support often occurs when the financial or living circumstances of a spouse are changed to a large degree. This may include a change in either spouse’s income or health, as well as in the needs of a child or children the spouses share. Both child support and spousal support, or alimony, have different ways they can be modified.

Child Support Modifications

California laws which govern child support allow for a change in the support amount at any time, as the court deems necessary, regardless of an agreement between spouses or parents. If the mandatory California state guidelines regarding child support change, so will the amount of child support you are required to receive or pay. A skilled attorney experienced with child support modifications in particular will make all the difference in your case. Whether you need to increase or decrease the amount of child support being paid by you or your spouse, a child support attorney can help you.

Spousal Support Modifications

Spousal support modifications are similar to child support modifications, except that an agreement between ex-spouses may affect changes to the support amount. Spousal support may be changed based on an ex-spouse’s new earnings, whether it is higher or lower than the previous amount. Sometimes a spouse’s failure in attempting to become self-supporting (such as in finding a job or getting training for a job) can result in a termination or reduction in spousal support he or she is eligible to receive. In addition, if a spouse becomes self-supporting, alimony may no longer be required to be paid by the other spouse.

Regardless of your particular issue, modification of support can be complicated and requires a divorce lawyer who can work to protect your interests and make sure any changes made are to your best interests.

Seeking modification of support in San Diego, California? Contact our attorneys today.