Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that life changes, and sometimes those changes affect the financial support parents provide for their children. If you need to modify a child support order, it’s important to understand when and how adjustments can be made. Courts don’t grant modifications automatically—you have to request a change and provide valid reasons. Our team of family lawyers  is continuously voted Super Lawyers by our peers, so come see why.

Reasons To Modify Child Support

Child support modifications are typically based on significant changes in circumstances. Common reasons include:

• Income Changes. A substantial increase or decrease in income for either parent may warrant an adjustment. Job loss, promotions, or new employment can all be factors.
• Change in Custody or Parenting Time. If one parent takes on more responsibility for the child, support may need to be adjusted accordingly.
• Medical or Educational Expenses. Unexpected healthcare costs or new educational needs can justify modifying support.
• Change in Child’s Needs. As children grow, their financial needs shift. Increased costs for extracurricular activities, healthcare, or schooling may require a modification.
• Parent’s Life Circumstances. If a parent remarries, has another child, or experiences a major financial hardship, the court may consider these factors when reviewing a request.

The Process Of Requesting A Modification

To change a child support order, you need to file a request with the court. In most cases, you must show that the change in circumstances is substantial and ongoing. The process typically includes:

1. Filing a Petition. A formal request must be submitted to the appropriate court.
2. Providing Supporting Documents. Pay stubs, tax returns, medical bills, or other records may be needed to demonstrate why a change is necessary.
3. Court Review. A judge will evaluate whether the requested modification is justified.
4. Hearing (if necessary). If there is disagreement between parents, a court hearing may be scheduled to review evidence and determine if the order should be changed.

Temporary Vs. Permanent Modifications

Some modifications are temporary, while others result in permanent changes. A temporary modification may be granted for short-term hardships, such as medical recovery or unemployment. Permanent modifications apply when the change in circumstances is expected to last indefinitely.

What Happens If A Parent Disagrees?

If one parent contests the modification, the court will examine the situation and make a decision based on the child’s best interests. Both parents will have the opportunity to present evidence. If an agreement can’t be reached, a judge will issue a ruling.

Get Legal Help You Can Trust

We know that child custody and support cases can be difficult. Modifying a child support order isn’t automatic, and courts require solid justification before approving changes. If you believe an adjustment is necessary, it’s best to act quickly. At Robinson & Hadeed, we help parents take the right steps when requesting modifications, making sure all necessary documentation is in place. You can count on us because other attorneys send cases our way. If you have questions about child support changes, we’re here to help.

For parents who live apart from their children, maintaining a strong relationship can be challenging. Our Tacoma, WA custody lawyer knows that virtual visitation provides an important way to stay involved in a child’s life, especially when in-person visits are limited by distance, work schedules, or other factors. Courts increasingly recognize the value of video calls, texting, and other digital communication as part of custody agreements. We have 54 years of family law experience and we know it is crucial to have a family law lawyer by your side.

What Is Virtual Visitation?

Virtual visitation refers to court-approved electronic communication between a parent and child. This can include video chats, phone calls, text messages, emails, and even online gaming sessions. While it doesn’t replace in-person parenting time, it serves as a useful supplement, allowing parents to stay connected even when they are not physically present.

How Courts Handle Virtual Visitation

Many states have laws that explicitly allow virtual visitation as part of custody arrangements. Even in states without specific laws on the subject, courts can order virtual visitation if it benefits the child. Judges typically consider factors such as the child’s age, the relationship between the parent and child, and whether virtual communication would serve the child’s best interests.

Virtual visitation is often included in custody agreements when one parent relocates. In some cases, it is also used when safety concerns prevent in-person visits. Courts may set schedules for video calls just like they would for physical custody exchanges, ensuring both parents have fair access to communication.

Benefits Of Virtual Visitation

One of the biggest advantages of virtual visitation is consistency. It allows parents to maintain daily or weekly check-ins, helping them stay engaged in their child’s life. Whether it’s helping with homework, reading a bedtime story, or simply catching up on the day, technology makes it easier to participate in everyday moments.

Virtual visitation is also flexible. Unlike traditional visits, which often require travel and coordination, a quick video call or text message can happen at almost any time. This can be especially useful for parents who travel frequently or have unpredictable work schedules.

For children, virtual visitation can reduce feelings of separation. Seeing a parent’s face and hearing their voice can provide comfort and reassurance, reinforcing their sense of stability and connection.

Challenges And Considerations

While virtual visitation is a valuable tool, it’s important to set guidelines to prevent conflicts. Parents should agree on communication times, the type of technology used, and how to handle disruptions. For example, if a child is busy with school or extracurricular activities, both parents should respect those commitments.

Technical issues can also be a problem. A poor internet connection or outdated devices can make video calls frustrating with virtual child custody. Parents should ensure they have reliable access to the necessary technology to make virtual visits smooth and enjoyable.

How We Can Help

At Robinson & Hadeed, we help parents create fair and workable custody agreements that include virtual visitation when appropriate. Whether you are requesting virtual visitation or facing challenges with an existing agreement, we can guide you through the process. Every year our peers have voted us Super Lawyer. Contact us today to discuss your situation and find a solution that keeps you connected with your child.

Family legal matters can be some of the most emotional and life-changing experiences we face. Whether it’s a divorce, child custody dispute, or spousal support issue, navigating these challenges alone can feel overwhelming. Working with our qualified family law attorney can make a significant difference. At Robinson & Hadeed, we’ve guided countless clients through difficult times with compassion, expertise, and fierce advocacy.

If you’re considering hiring our family law attorney, here are several reasons why having professional legal representation is a critical step.

Knowledge Of Local Laws And Procedures

Every jurisdiction has unique family law statutes, and understanding how the laws apply in your specific situation is essential. Our lawyer familiar with Pierce and Kitsap Counties will know the local courts, judges, and procedures, helping you move your case forward with greater clarity.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we focus on providing precise legal counsel tailored to Tacoma and surrounding areas. With our combined 25 years of experience, we understand what it takes to build strong cases under Washington family law.

Objectivity During Emotional Times

Family disputes often stir strong emotions, and it can be challenging to make decisions with a clear head. Having our attorney by your side allows you to step back and focus on what matters most. Lawyers bring objectivity to the table, offering grounded advice and helping clients avoid decisions driven by frustration or anger.

Our attorneys, Shannon Hadeed and Nicole Pryor, have a reputation for being fierce yet empathetic advocates. We care deeply about our clients and are committed to helping them achieve outcomes that protect their families and future.

Skillful Advocacy For Your Rights

When your rights are at stake, having our lawyer who knows how to argue your case effectively is vital. Whether you’re dealing with a custody battle, property division, or support matters, your attorney will ensure your voice is heard and your rights are respected.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we’ve earned a reputation as top family law attorneys in Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Kitsap. Other attorneys trust us with their most challenging cases because we prepare meticulously and argue persuasively in court.

Reducing Stress And Saving Time

Legal disputes often require significant time and attention to detail. From gathering evidence to preparing court documents, the process can be overwhelming for someone without legal experience. Our family law lawyer can take on these responsibilities, allowing you to focus on your personal well-being and your family.

Our team is known for extreme attention to detail—we don’t miss a thing. Whether it’s assessing the strengths of a case or drafting detailed agreements, we handle the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.

A Team You Can Trust

When you work with Robinson & Hadeed, you’re not just hiring lawyers—you’re partnering with a team that genuinely cares about you. Shannon Hadeed’s experience as a Guardian ad Litem brings a child-focused perspective to custody matters, while Nicole Pryor’s relentless dedication helps clients feel supported throughout the process. Together, we provide a steady hand and a strong voice for our clients.

If you’re searching for our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer, Robinson & Hadeed is here to help. As top divorce lawyers in Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Kitsap County, we are skilled litigators and tough negotiators who care about your case. With decades of experience, we can help you approach your family law matter with confidence and a clear strategy.

Contact Robinson & Hadeed today to schedule a consultation. Let us provide the support, preparation, and advocacy you need during this important time. Your future is worth fighting for, and we’re ready to stand by your side every step of the way.

Divorce can bring significant changes to your life, and it’s important to have someone who can help you make informed decisions and advocate for your interests. A family lawyer provides legal guidance and works to protect your rights throughout the process, from dividing assets to determining custody arrangements. Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer understands how critical it is to have a strong advocate during this time.

Protecting Your Financial Interests

One of the primary ways a family lawyer helps during divorce is by addressing financial matters. This includes dividing property, determining spousal support, and addressing debts. A lawyer works with you to identify assets and liabilities, including those that may not be immediately obvious, such as retirement accounts or business interests. They also help you negotiate fair terms, ensuring that your financial future is taken into account. If your divorce involves significant assets or disputes over financial matters, having a lawyer ensures your rights are represented and that agreements are structured to protect your long-term stability.

Guiding Custody And Parenting Decisions

When children are involved, custody arrangements can be one of the most sensitive parts of a divorce. A family lawyer helps by advocating for a parenting plan that works for you while prioritizing your child’s needs. They assist in negotiating terms for physical custody, legal custody, and visitation schedules.

If disputes arise, your lawyer presents your case to the court in a way that highlights your ability to provide a supportive and stable environment for your child. This can make a significant difference in achieving a custody arrangement that benefits everyone involved.

Addressing Communication And Conflict

Divorce can be an emotional process, and communication between spouses is often challenging. A family lawyer acts as your representative, managing discussions and negotiations on your behalf. This reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or heated arguments and allows you to focus on moving forward. Lawyers also provide guidance on how to handle conflicts that arise during the divorce, such as disagreements over assets or custody terms. With their help, you can work toward resolutions that avoid unnecessary delays or additional stress.

Handling The Legal Process

Divorce involves a series of legal steps, from filing paperwork to attending court hearings. A family lawyer ensures that all necessary documents are completed accurately and submitted on time. This is particularly important if your divorce involves issues like property division, custody, or support, which require detailed legal filings. At Robinson & Hadeed, we’re committed to helping you through the divorce process with clear guidance and strong advocacy. A family lawyer provides critical support, whether you’re working through negotiations or presenting your case in court. Contact our team to schedule a consultation and get the support you need.

Child support orders are put in place to help provide for a child’s financial needs, including housing, food, education, and healthcare. Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that when a parent doesn’t comply with these orders, it can create unnecessary difficulties for the custodial parent and impact the child’s well-being. If you find yourself in this situation, there are legal options available to address nonpayment and enforce the support your child is entitled to receive.

Communicating With The Other Parent

In some cases, missed payments may result from temporary financial difficulties or misunderstandings about the payment process. Before taking legal action, it can help to reach out to the other parent to discuss the issue. Sometimes, an open conversation can clarify the situation and lead to a resolution. However, if communication doesn’t result in payment or the other parent is uncooperative, it may be time to explore legal enforcement methods.

Working With The Court

Child support is a legally binding obligation, and courts have several tools available to enforce payment. Filing a motion with the court is a common first step. This allows the judge to review the case, address the nonpayment, and issue additional orders if necessary. The court can also impose penalties on the nonpaying parent, such as fines or interest on overdue payments, to encourage compliance.

Wage Garnishment

Wage garnishment is one of the most effective ways to enforce child support. With this method, the court orders the nonpaying parent’s employer to withhold a portion of their wages and send it directly to the custodial parent or a state agency managing child support payments. Wage garnishment ensures that payments are made consistently and reduces the risk of further missed payments.

Intercepting Tax Refunds And Other Funds

If a parent owes back child support, the court may intercept federal or state tax refunds to cover the unpaid amount. Similarly, lottery winnings, unemployment benefits, or other government payments can sometimes be redirected to satisfy outstanding child support obligations.

Revoking Licenses

In more serious cases of nonpayment, courts may take administrative actions, such as suspending the nonpaying parent’s driver’s license or professional license. This measure is often used to prompt compliance when other enforcement methods haven’t worked.

Contempt Of Court

If the nonpaying parent willfully ignores court orders, they can be held in contempt of court. This is a serious consequence that may result in fines, community service, or even jail time in extreme cases. While courts prefer not to take punitive action, they may do so to uphold the law and protect the child’s rights.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we understand how important child support is to your family’s financial stability. Enforcing a child support order can be a stressful process, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team is here to help you explore your options and take the necessary steps to secure the support your child deserves. If you need assistance enforcing a child support order, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to find a solution that works for you and your family.