Circumstances in a parent’s life sometimes change, and they may need to revisit the existing child support orders.
It’s important to know the potential grounds for obtaining a child support modification and how to navigate the process.
Common reasons for requesting a modification order
In Minnesota, there are some circumstances where the court may consider a child support modification, such as:
- Significant increase or decrease in one parent’s income
- Circumstances change for either the child or parent
- Change in cost-of-living for either parent
- Significant medical expenses for the child
- Change in education expenses
- The child becomes emancipated
- The parent can show that the current obligation is unreasonable or unfair under current circumstances
If a parent feels they have grounds for requesting a change, they must first download and fill out the appropriate forms from the Minnesota Courts website and submit them to the court that issued the original child support order.
The other parent must be notified of the modification request by you, another adult or the sheriff at least 24 days before the scheduled hearing. At the hearing, both parents can present evidence and arguments.
After hearing the evidence, the judge will decide if the existing order is unreasonable and if the proposed modification would be in the child’s best interests.
If you need to file a child support modification order, it can be beneficial to work with someone familiar with the family court system. There are several forms to fill out and submit, along with supporting documentation. Failure to follow the procedures can delay your court hearing and impact your request. Having someone to guide you through the process is your best opportunity for a successful outcome.