When parents in West Virginia divorce, and they have minor children to consider, it’s common for one parent to pay child support to the other parent. Child support can help the custodial parent be more financially stable after divorce. It can pay for clothing, education, medical costs and other essentials to help the children thrive. In some cases, adjustments to the amount of child support ordered are appropriate when financial circumstances change for one or both parents.
When child support can be adjusted
The parent receiving child support can petition the court for an adjustment to the amount received. The courts will look at changes in finances or other life changes when determining whether an adjustment is appropriate. If one parent significantly increases or decreases income, a change may be ordered. Changes in custody may also result in an adjustment to child support.
The parent who pays child support can also request an adjustment under certain circumstances. If that parent gets remarried and takes on the care of more children, this can lead to a reduction in ordered child support. These adjustments vary greatly in each situation.
Child support is a complicated matter
When it comes to child support, both parents likely have strong feelings about the appropriate amount to be paid. This is why it’s crucial for a divorcing parent in West Virginia to seek legal advice from an experienced family law attorney. A lawyer can provide insight into coming to terms with all the life changes that go with divorce, including negotiating such matters as child support and custody.
