Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan

Protesting contents of child support orders

Hi,

I am from PA, she from MI, never married together and there is a 4 year old child involved.

I am staring now at a Consent Judgement of Support Final Judgement form that I am to sign and return. The biggest problem is my current inabilty to pay it due to other debts and medical costs. In addition to that I have reason to suspect she may be lying about her income, and I already know she will not abide by the Custody clause in the order.

When do I start fighting this stuff? I keep seeing references to a ''friend of the court'' but have yet to get any contact info. Do I need to actually have the support order signed by a judge before I can start voicing my protests? I've read about a ''full discovery'' process that would scrutinize her income a little more... is this accurate and is it something I can use?

Any help or info anyone can provide would be greatly appreciated!


Asked on 8/03/05, 8:21 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Blake Lipman Law Office of Blake P. Lipman

Re: Protesting contents of child support orders

If you have reason to disagree with the support payment, do not sign the consent judgemnt! You should seek a lawyer and insist on a hearing to determine support. For more info, please contact my office at (248)851-3171.

Read more
Answered on 8/09/05, 12:42 pm
Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: Protesting contents of child support orders

If you cannot pay the stipulated order you should not sign it. Your debts and medical costs are factors the court should consider prior to determining the level of support you should pay. Courts frown upon support agreements which contain custody provisions as they could be abused to "sell" visitation. If there is no formal custody order you need to file an action where the child lives. If there is a formal custody order you will need to file a petition to modify it if you feel the level of visitation is too low. You should contact an attorney licensed in the jurisdiction the actions are taking place in. I offer free consultation.

Read more
Answered on 8/03/05, 8:46 pm
William Stern William Stern, P.C.

Re: Protesting contents of child support orders

Perhaps it is now time to bite the bullet and see a family law lawyer. Bring your papers. William S. Stern 248-353-9400

Read more
Answered on 8/03/05, 9:32 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Michigan