Since March of 2020, the entire country has been reeling through the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. This global health crisis has dramatically affected the way of life for those across the country and here in California. The pandemic has also significantly affected the economy and left many people out of work. This can be devastating for those who are trying to make their child support payments on time and in full. At the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, our Westlake Village child support attorneys want to discuss whether or not you are allowed to lower your child support payments if you find yourself unable to make them due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Struggling To Pay Child Support Can Be A Problem
In the aftermath of a divorce or separation, it is not uncommon for all parties involved to undergo significant life changes. Sometimes this includes going through losing a job. When this happens, those who owe child support often wonder whether or not they should stop making payments so they can afford their daily living expenses. It is important to understand that child support payments are ordered by the court, and they must be made. Anyone who fails to make their child support payments could face significant legal problems, including jail time.
However, The California family court system recognizes that there are times when modifications need to be made to a person’s monthly child support obligations. By working through the court system, a parent can ask for a recalculation of their child support payment if their income has gone down. If you have lost your job due to the COVID-19 pandemic, your child support could be reduced or potentially lowered to zero for a limited amount of time.
We want to point out that modifications to child support are not retroactive, meaning that the court will not make an adjustment on what you have already paid because you delayed filing for a modification. If you lose your job due to COVID-19 or any other reason, speak to an attorney as soon as possible about the proper way to request a modification through the court.
COVID-19 child support modifications are not going to be permanent. You still owe an obligation to your child, and the family court system in California is very strict about that. As soon as you get a job or start earning more money, the child support obligation will again be modified to reflect these changes.
Let Our Team Get To Work Helping You Today
If you have lost your job or are making significantly less money than you were before the COVID-19 pandemic began, then you may be struggling to make your child support payments. If you think you need to make a modification to the amount you pay each month, you must do so through the correct channels. At the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, our Westlake Village child support attorneys are ready to help you explore all modification options and work through the court system to ensure you are treated fairly. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or by calling 818-707-0202.
