Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

Child Support

I am a divorced father paying child support for my 7 yr. old son. I am paying above the support guidlines.

I ha just been laid off from my job. Can I have my support payments modified while I am out of work?


Asked on 2/07/09, 9:28 am

5 Answers from Attorneys

Gabriel Cheong Infinity Law Group

Re: Child Support

Yes. You can go to court and file a Modification action.

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Answered on 2/07/09, 9:54 am
Joseph Murray Joseph M. Murray, Esq.

Re: Child Support

Yes. You must file a Complaint for Modification. And if your son's Mother agrees you can file a joint, agreed upon, petition for Modification.

But the Child Support Guidelines have recently been updated. So, you may want to retain an attorney to assist you with this. Good Luck!

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Answered on 2/07/09, 1:03 pm
Gregory Lee Gregory P. Lee, Attorney at Law

Re: Child Support

You may absolutely seek this. You should file immediately, and file a motion for temporary orders.

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Answered on 2/07/09, 1:57 pm

Re: Child Support

Yes, you file a Petition/Complaint for modification of child support with the court.

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Answered on 2/07/09, 3:42 pm
Andy P. Miller Law Office of Andy P. Miller

Re: Child Support

Any modification requires a material change in circumstances. Being laid off would likely qualify as a material change. This, however, will not completely eliminate, even for a short duration, you obligation to pay support. I would file a modification as soon as possible. In addition, you should file a motion for temporary orders so your matter can be heard more quickly.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

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Answered on 2/08/09, 5:50 am


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