Child support is a financial obligation that ensures both parents contribute to the financial well-being of their child post-divorce or separation.
In Tennessee, it is possible to request modifications to an existing child support order, provided there are sufficient grounds. As such, some of the reasons a parent may request modification may include the following.
Changes in income or earning capacity
If either parent experiences a substantial change in income, such as job loss, promotion, or a decrease in earnings, it can warrant a modification to ensure that the child’s financial needs are adequately met based on the new circumstances. This adjustment ensures fairness in the distribution of financial responsibilities between the parents and reflects the current financial situation of each party.
Children’s needs
As children grow and their needs evolve, there may be increased expenses related to education, healthcare, extracurricular activities or other essential needs. If there are significant changes in the child’s needs that were not initially accounted for in the original child support order, it may be necessary to adjust the support amount to ensure that the child’s needs are adequately met. This could include situations where the child requires specialized medical care, therapy or educational support that was not anticipated at the time of the initial order.
Mutual agreement
If both parents agree that a modification is necessary due to changes in circumstances or the child’s needs, they can jointly petition the court for a modification. This collaborative approach can streamline the process and avoid potential conflicts between the parents. It demonstrates a willingness to work together in the best interests of the child and ensures that any modifications to the child support order are made with the child’s well-being as the primary consideration.
Before starting the process of requesting a modification to a child support order in Tennessee, it is advisable for parents to seek legal guidance to better understand their rights, obligations and the specific procedures involved.
