My income dropped. Can support be lowered?

Possibly. The reduction generally must be substantial, involuntary, and expected to continue. Filing promptly matters - relief usually dates from filing, not from when your income changed.

Can we just agree to change it ourselves?

A private arrangement is unenforceable and can create arrears. Agreed changes should be submitted to the court and entered as an order.

How do I change a time-sharing schedule?

By showing a substantial, material, unanticipated change in circumstances and that the new schedule is in the child's best interests.

Modification of Decrees

When life changes, the order should change with it.

Final judgments are not permanent in every respect. Time-sharing, child support, and most alimony awards can be modified when circumstances change substantially - a job loss, a relocation, a serious illness, a child's changing needs.

The burden is real: the change must be substantial, material, and generally unanticipated at the time of the original order.

How we help

Evaluate honestly whether your facts meet the modification standard before you file.
File and prosecute supplemental petitions for modification of support or time-sharing.
Defend against modification petitions that do not meet the legal threshold.
Address retroactivity, arrears, and income imputation issues that accompany support changes.

Frequently asked questions

DiMaggio Law Offices represents clients in modification of decrees matters throughout South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Coral Gables, Miami, Miami Beach, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach and Delray Beach.