To modify a parenting plan, you have to show the court that there has been a substantial change in circumstances. That’s the standard of proof. You have to show the court that there’s adequate cause for that modification. That’s a really hard burden to meet to modify the parenting plan.
Child support can be modified every two years just because of the natural change in people’s income.
If there is a minor life change between those two years, you can request an adjustment and that can be simply like my income has changed. Common examples for requesting a change could be losing your job, making less/more money, having a new family, or relocating. It’s important to note that even if your income changes by $10,000 to $20,000 a year, it only changes the child support very little.
When Can You Modify Child Support In Renton, WA?
In Renton, WA, child support orders are not set in stone. A party can seek to modify a child support order under specific circumstances. Typically, these changes occur when there is a substantial change in circumstances. Examples can include a significant shift in the needs of the child, such as educational or medical expenses, or substantial changes in a parent’s income. It is essential to remember that modifications don’t happen automatically, and one must take legal steps to make them official. Consulting with an experienced child support lawyer like Diem Nguyen at DC Nguyen Law can provide a clearer understanding of when and how you can modify a child support agreement in Renton.
What Is The Process Of Modifying A Court-Issued Child Support Order In Renton, WA?
Modifying a court-issued child support order in Renton involves several steps:
- Petition The Court: The first step is to file a motion or petition with the court that initially issued the child support order. This document should clearly explain the reasons for seeking a modification.
- Provide Evidence Of Change: You must provide substantial evidence to justify the change. This could be documentation of a change in income, new medical expenses for the child, or other relevant proof.
- Mediation Or Hearing: Depending on the circumstances, the court may order mediation between both parties to reach an agreement. If no agreement is reached, the matter might go to a hearing where both parties present their case, and the judge makes a determination.
- Court’s Decision: After reviewing the evidence and listening to both parties, the judge will make a decision on whether to modify the child support order or keep it as is.
- Document The Changes: If the child support order is modified, ensure you get the new terms in writing and understand your new obligations or rights.
The process of modifying child support law can be intricate. To navigate it successfully, consider seeking guidance from a family law-focused firm like DC Nguyen Law. Their expertise will ensure you’re taking the correct steps to safeguard the best interests of your child.
What Is The Process To Petition For A Modification In Washington State?
After filing your petition and serving the other party, you have to file a motion for adequate cause. The adequate cause is something that you have to prove to the court. The court is going to look at if there is an agreement and if there were restrictions on either party the last time they entered a parenting plan. You will have to make a case asserting that this existing parenting plan is not in the best interest of the child.
Procedurally, you file the documents, you get the other party served, the case schedule is issued, and you follow the case schedule. You have to go through mediation, then you have to prepare for trial and then you go to trial in itself.
Do I Have To Pay Alimony In Washington State? How Much Do I Have To Pay?
In Washington, alimony is called spousal maintenance. Spousal maintenance is not automatic; it must be requested. There are a series of eleven factors that the court looks at to determine whether there should be spousal maintenance.
Factors determining who pays alimony in Washington state
- How long were you married for
- during the marriage, who worked, who didn’t work
- Does one party have to go back to school
- Does one party have to learn a new skill
- Is there a huge disparity between the incomes
So, those are the factors the court looks at to determine whether there should be spousal maintenance or not. The amount is determined based on the needs of one party and the ability of the other party to pay.
For our clients, we work under the assumption that for every four years of marriage, you get one year of spousal maintenance. But this is not guaranteed, it depends on the above factors.
But a majority of the time, I see spousal maintenance awarded generally in long-term marriages where one party is the breadwinner and the other parent will require their assistance. But you are getting divorced so you shouldn’t be required to pay for your former spouse for an indeterminate amount of time.
For more information on Family Law Cases In The State Of Washington, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (425) 276-7390 today.
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