Some of the most contentious issues surrounding a divorce or paternity case concern children under the age of 18. This includes issues with child custody and parent time as well as properly calculating child support payments. However, in the aftermath of a divorce or paternity case, it may be necessary to alter child support payments. There are various reasons why payments may need to be increased or temporarily decreased, including economic downturns that affect the paying parent. During the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic troubles, many people are wondering what they need to do to reduce child support payments.
Unprecedented Economic Crisis
Over the last few months, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to economic situations that nobody could have anticipated. Between the threat of contracting coronavirus and various stay at home suggestions issued by local governments, many businesses ground to a halt. The unemployment rate in Utah is currently at approximately 8.5%. While this is much lower than the rest of the country, this unemployment rate is still much higher than it was before this crisis began.
It may take some time for the economy in Utah to fully recover, particularly as COVID-19 continues to create employment issues throughout the state. Many people have lost their jobs or had their hours reduced, and this has led to questions about how a person can reduce their child support payment obligations.
It is important to point out that the parent who is obligated to make child support payments must legally pay what they owe without delay, and they must pay the amount they owe. There can be no agreement to lower child support payments without a court order.
Anyone who is obliged to pay more than they can afford or has encountered significant financial difficulties may be able to request a child support modification in certain circumstances. In order to qualify for a modification, you should consult with a Salt Lake City child support attorney who can help prove the following:
- You have a diminished ability to earn money
- The other parent earns more money than they did previously
Contact Us For A Consultation Of Your Case Today
If you have any questions about modifying child support payments in Salt Lake City, attorney Emy Cordano is ready to help. Attorney Cordano has extensive experience handling these cases and will work to ensure that you are treated fairly, whether you are the paying parent or the parent receiving the child support payments. It is important that everybody involved understands their obligations and how to legally make any necessary modifications. When you need a Salt Lake City child support modification attorney, you can contact us by clicking here or call us at (801) 901-8159 for an initial consultation.