Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

Paying too much Child Support

I have an existing child support agreement in Maryland. The Mother of my son claimed last May that her income was $12K per year. She let it slip that her tax return said she made $24K in 2004. She constantly brags about her tips she receives at work she doesn't declare. I had to increase my income (I own a business) to be able to afford the child support! I have no excess expenses, simply rent, food, and a vehicle and insurance payment on a jointly owned vehicle she refuses to pay for. If I go to court to request a reduction, will I have a leg to stand on? My company is very new and I am putting it near bankruptcy by raising my salary, which is just what she wants. Support is $879 per month, which includes daycare. She refuses to let me know who my son's daycare provider is, and how much she pays. I know for a fact her daughter watched my son for free for the summer months of last year. What are my rights?


Asked on 3/07/05, 1:39 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: Paying too much Child Support

If the amount you're paying was set by agreement rather than court order, you will have to show a significant change in income levels (either yours or hers) to get a court to modify the amount. If it's from a court order now and she deliberately understated her income, you can ask that she be held in contempt of court. But you definitely ought to seek legal assistance before you do anything.

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Answered on 3/21/05, 3:22 pm


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