From the mailbag… child support questions answered…
Client or potential clients are always emailing us asking child support or alimony type questions… starting today, we’ll start answering some on our blog…
QUESTION from Sheela in Missouri:
I am the custodial parent of a 16 year old boy and an 18 year old boy who is now in college. There has been a child support order in place for approximately 10 years now. Child support payments have been rare and inconsistent. My best estimate is that their father is approximately $30,000 + in arrears at this time. I have been able to receive very little support for enforcement even though I have a court trustee handling my case. Now I am being asked to provide all of my financial information to have the support modified since my oldest son is no longer a dependent. What are my options for collecting the child support arrears, and can/will they REALLY lower my court ordered support with all of the outstanding arrears?!?! I am looking for some justice. Any help would be appreciated.
ANSWER:
Thanks for the question Sheela. Collecting child support and getting a modification of child support in Missouri are two separate distinct actions. The modification, even if it did go into effect, would not alter the arrears amount. The modification would only effect “current” support going forward. Also, courts tend to shun the activity of attempting to get a modification while no reasonable attempt to pay child support for this long of a time period has gone on. It would have been much smarter for your “ex” to start paying and establish a track record of paying before trying to reduce his obligation. Nevertheless, if his income has been reduced and he can prove it, he more than likely will get his support modified. The good news is we can help with collecting your arrears.