What is Child Support Modification in Oklahoma?
According to Oklahoma child support law, if either parent’s circumstances have significantly changed, they may ask the court for a modification of their child support obligations. A parent who gets child support from the other parent may ask for an increase if that other parent’s income or assets significantly increases, while the parent providing the support may seek a reduction in their obligations if they experience a decrease in their income.
Child support modifications can significantly change the impact of a child support order. If your, your former spouse’s, or your child’s situation has changed significantly, now may be the time to contact a family lawyer in Oklahoma to help you obtain a child support modification.
Reasons for a Child Support Modification
Oklahoma law allows for a modification in child support payments for the following reasons:
Changes in the Law
In 2009, Oklahoma’s child support laws underwent a substantial overhaul. The modifications do not immediately give parents the right to amend child support orders – there still needs to have been a change in circumstances outside of the law in order to support a modification. The change must be made for the benefit of the child or children. If the proposed modification meets those criteria, the new child support obligations will be based on those changes in the law.
For more details about the Oklahoma child support law, including nine things you need to know about the 2009 changes, click here.
Changes in Circumstances
Oklahoma child support orders may also modified if one of the parents experiences a significant change in income. Oklahoma law defines this as 20%. If a parent experiences at least a 20% change – either an increase or decrease – in their income, that can lead to a reevaluation in current child support monetary amounts.
Aside from income, changes can also take the form of court-ordered changes in custody, changes in medical or daycare costs, a permanent medical disability of either parent, or the child reaching the age of 18, at which point he or she is no longer entitled to child support.
Initial Strategy Consultation with a Child Support Attorney
Parents who are owed or owe child support payments may represent themselves in seeking modifications, but for the best chance at success, it’s wise to contact an Oklahoma child support attorney. Wirth Law Firm – Claremore offers consultations with experienced family lawyers in Oklahoma. If you need a modification to your child support payments, contact us today by at 918-213-0950 to schedule your consultation.
