Child Support Modification in Fort Wayne Indiana

Fort Wayne IN Child Support Lawyers – Family Law Attorneys

When you are going through a dissolution of marriage proceeding in the state of Indiana it is useful to recognize the fact that the terms of the divorce as they stand on the day when the action becomes final are not necessarily permanent. Post-divorce modifications can and do take place when the circumstances warrant alterations, and the terms that can typically be modified include child custody and spousal support or alimony. However, the divorce term that is most frequently modified is the amount of child support that must be paid each month.

Indiana uses the Income Shares Model in conjunction with the state child support guidelines to determine the amount of child support that is appropriate. Clearly, the income of the parents is subject to change over time, and the financial needs of the children can change as well. According to the Indiana Child Support Guidelines, Guideline 4 (Modifications) a child support modification can be called for when a substantial change of circumstances takes place.

The guidelines state that a change in the financial dynamic that would result in at least a 20% difference in the amount of child support that must be paid is considered to be significant enough to warrant a modification. Aside from the income levels of the parents, any increase in the child or children’s needs will be taken into consideration as well. In addition, the guidelines expressly state that at least twelve months must have passed since the most recent previous child support determination  before a child support modification request will be considered.

Child support modifications usually involve an increase in the amount that must be paid, but reductions can be ordered as well should the circumstances warrant a decrease. It should be noted that the guidelines also state that if the modification that was called for was so significant that it would have a drastic impact on the quality of life of either parent the change could be phased in gradually.

To discuss child support modification with a professional, contact a Fort Wayne IN family lawyer to arrange for a free consultation.