Fighting For Custody With Long Hours

/in /by

Our Tacoma, WA custody lawyer knows that working long hours doesn’t mean you can’t be a devoted and capable parent. If you’re going through a custody dispute and your work schedule is demanding, you may worry that it will affect your chances. Courts do consider how much time each parent can spend with the children, but they also recognize that many parents work full-time—and still provide a stable, loving home. If you’re facing this situation, there are steps you can take to strengthen your case and show the court that your children are your priority, even when your job keeps you busy. Our firm has 54 years of family law experience and is prepared to help your family.

Focus On The Quality Of Time, Not Just Quantity

Courts want to know that your children are safe, supported, and emotionally cared for. While time is important, it’s not the only factor. You can show the court that when you’re off work, you dedicate that time to your children—helping with school, attending appointments, preparing meals, or being present during bedtime routines.

Think about how you manage your time and how you plan to meet your children’s needs. We can help you highlight that in your custody request.

Have A Clear And Practical Parenting Plan

One of the best ways to present yourself as a reliable parent is to offer a thoughtful parenting plan. This shows the court that you’ve considered your schedule and found a way to balance your responsibilities.

For example, if you work long shifts during the week, you might ask for more parenting time on weekends or on your days off. You can also build in video calls, school event attendance, or morning routines if those fit your schedule. Courts appreciate a plan that is realistic and built around your children’s needs.

Line Up Childcare And Support

If your work keeps you away during certain hours, be ready to explain how your children will be cared for during those times. This might involve a trusted relative, a long-term babysitter, or a reputable daycare.

Courts want to know that your children will have consistent, reliable care when you’re working. Showing that you’ve already made these arrangements can work in your favor and help the judge see that your parenting is responsible and well thought out.

Be Proactive About Communication

Good communication with your children and your co-parent—if possible—also helps support your case. If you’re the parent who keeps everyone informed, manages appointments, and stays involved in decisions, make that part of your story. These actions show the court that you’re engaged in your children’s lives, regardless of your work hours.

Legal Support Can Make A Difference

Child custody cases are rarely simple, especially when you work demanding hours. That’s why it helps to work with a legal team that understands what the court is looking for and how to present your strengths clearly. At Robinson & Hadeed, we’ve worked with many parents in your position and helped them build strong custody cases. If you’re worried that your job might hurt your chances in a custody case, reach out to us today. Our lawyer often taches other lawyers her personal strategies, so know you are in good hands. We’ll help you develop a plan that shows the court just how committed you are to your children—no matter what your schedule looks like.

Legal Guidance For Private Adoption

/in /by

Private adoption can be a meaningful way to grow a family, but the legal process behind it takes planning, attention to detail, and the right support. Our Bremerton, WA family lawyer knows that whether you’re adopting as a stepparent, a relative, or through a private agreement with the birth parents, it’s important to follow the proper legal steps to make the adoption valid and permanent.

A family lawyer knows that in a private adoption, the adoptive parents work directly with the birth parents, without using a public agency. This often allows more flexibility and personal connection, but it also means we need to handle the legal requirements carefully to avoid delays or problems later. Our firm has been voted Super Lawyer each year by our peers, so trust that we will work diligently on your behalf.

Start With Consent

One of the most important legal steps in any adoption is securing the birth parents’ consent. In most cases, both birth parents must voluntarily give up their parental rights before the adoption can move forward. Consent must be given in writing and often must be witnessed or approved by a judge, depending on the state. Without proper consent, the court may not finalize the adoption.

In some cases, consent might not be needed if a parent’s rights have already been terminated due to abandonment, neglect, or another legal reason. We can help determine whether consent is required and what steps to take if one parent can’t be found or won’t cooperate.

Complete A Home Study If Required

Some private adoptions still require a home study, which is an evaluation of your living situation, background, and readiness to adopt. Not all states require a full home study for private adoptions—especially if it involves a relative or stepparent—but it’s something we’ll want to check early in the process. The court may request this information even if it’s not required by law.

File The Proper Court Documents

To legally adopt a child, we’ll need to file a petition with the appropriate court. This usually includes several forms, such as the adoption petition, consent documents, and background checks. After reviewing the paperwork, the court will schedule a hearing where a judge finalizes the adoption and grants full parental rights to the adoptive parents.

Missing a step or filing something incorrectly can slow things down. Working with an attorney can help keep things on track and avoid unnecessary delays.

Protect Everyone Involved

Private adoption involves legal rights for everyone—birth parents, adoptive parents, and the child. A lawyer can help you draft agreements that clearly outline what each party has agreed to, including any open adoption terms if ongoing contact is planned. This protects the adoption from future challenges and helps all parties understand their roles and expectations.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we’ve helped many families complete private adoptions with care and legal clarity. We understand how important this process is to you, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re thinking about a private adoption, reach out to us to schedule a consultation. We’ll walk through your situation, explain what steps apply, and help you move forward with confidence. We currently serve Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Kitsap County, and more, so call our family law lawyer when you are ready.

When Your Ex Won’t Pay Spousal Support

/in /by

When a court orders spousal support, both of you are expected to follow the terms. Our compassionate Port Orchard, WA family lawyer knows that if your ex has stopped making payments or is paying inconsistently, it can quickly become frustrating and create financial stress. If you’re in this situation, there are steps you can take to protect your rights and take action. We have over 50 years of family law experience, so don’t hesitate to reach out to our office now.

Gather Your Records First

Start by collecting all relevant documents. You’ll want a copy of your spousal support order and a record of all payments made—or missed. This might include bank statements, payment apps, written communication, or any receipts. If your support is handled through the court or a state agency, they may have a payment history available, but it’s still helpful to keep your own records.

Reach Out If It’s Safe

Sometimes, a missed payment is the result of a temporary issue or simple oversight. If you feel comfortable and safe doing so, you might consider reaching out to your ex to ask about the missed support. This can sometimes resolve the issue without further steps. However, if there’s a history of conflict or the communication might cause stress or harm, it’s okay to skip this and go straight to legal action.

Ask The Court To Step In

If your ex won’t pay voluntarily and the situation doesn’t improve, you can file a motion with the court to enforce the order. This is usually done by filing a motion for contempt. A judge will review your case and determine whether your ex has violated the support order. If they have, the court can order them to pay the overdue amount and possibly apply other penalties.

Use Enforcement Tools Like Wage Garnishment

When a judge finds that support hasn’t been paid, there are tools available to help collect it. The court can order wage garnishment, meaning the support is taken directly from your ex’s paycheck. In some cases, they might also intercept tax refunds or place liens on property. These options are especially helpful if the support payments have stopped for a long time or your ex refuses to cooperate.

Work With A Lawyer To Get Help

Dealing with unpaid support on your own can be overwhelming. A family law attorney can help you file the right documents, represent you in court, and walk you through all the legal options available to recover the money you’re owed. The team at Robinson & Hadeed has helped many clients enforce spousal support orders and protect their financial stability. If your ex isn’t following the court order, don’t wait to take action. Spousal support is a legal obligation, and you have every right to receive what the court awarded you. When it comes to difficult cases, other attorneys send their cases to us! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward getting the support you deserve.

Custody And Support For Unmarried Parents

/in /by

When parents are not married, questions often come up about custody, child support, and legal rights. Our Bremerton, WA family law lawyer knows that many people assume that being unmarried puts one parent at a disadvantage, but that’s not always the case. Both parents have rights and responsibilities when it comes to raising their children, regardless of their relationship status. We work with unmarried parents who want to protect their role in their child’s life and understand how the law applies to their situation. We have more than 50 years of family law experience, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.

Establishing Legal Paternity Matters

For fathers, one of the most important steps is establishing legal paternity. If a child is born outside of marriage, the father does not automatically have legal rights or responsibilities. Signing a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity or seeking a court order is often necessary. Once legal paternity is established, the father gains the right to seek custody or visitation and may also be required to pay child support.

Custody Is Based On The Child’s Best Interests

Just like in divorce cases, custody decisions between unmarried parents are based on what’s best for the child. Courts consider factors like each parent’s relationship with the child, living conditions, work schedules, and the child’s needs. Neither parent has an automatic advantage simply because of gender or marital status.

We often help parents work out parenting plans that include physical custody (where the child lives) and legal custody (who makes decisions about education, health care, and more). If parents can agree on a plan, it usually leads to a better outcome. If not, the court will decide based on the facts presented.

Child Support Is A Legal Obligation

Both parents are financially responsible for their children. When parents don’t live together, the noncustodial parent usually pays child support to the custodial parent. This support is meant to help cover the child’s everyday needs—such as housing, food, clothing, and medical expenses.

Child support is typically based on income, the number of children, and how much time the child spends with each parent. If circumstances change—like job loss or a significant increase in income—support orders can be reviewed and adjusted through the court.

Communication And Written Agreements Help

Even when parents are on good terms, it’s important to put parenting and support agreements in writing. Informal arrangements can break down quickly if a dispute arises. Courts are more likely to enforce agreements that are clearly documented and approved through legal channels.

We always recommend keeping records of child-related expenses and any payments made or received. If disagreements come up in the future, clear documentation can make a big difference.

What To Do If Problems Arise

If one parent is not following a custody schedule or failing to pay support, legal remedies are available. The court can step in to enforce orders, and penalties may apply for noncompliance. On the other hand, if you’ve been wrongly denied time with your child, it’s important to speak up and pursue legal options to protect your rights.

Let’s Talk About What Comes Next

Whether you’re just starting the process of establishing custody or need help enforcing a child support order, we’re here to help. At Robinson & Hadeed, we work with unmarried parents who want clear, fair solutions that protect their role in their child’s life. We are serving Tacoma, Kitsap County, Port Orchard, and more, so don’t hesitate to speak with us. If you have questions or need legal guidance, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Getting A Divorce When A Spouse Is Hiding Assets

/in /by

Dividing property and finances during divorce should be a transparent process. But sometimes, one spouse tries to keep money, property, or other assets hidden in an attempt to walk away with more than their fair share. Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows this kind of behavior is not only dishonest—it can affect the final outcome of the divorce and lead to legal consequences. If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, it’s important to take action early and work with someone who can help you uncover what’s missing, like a family lawyer. We are highly rated by clients on Avvo, so know that our firm takes the time to handle each client with compassion while aggressively fighting on their behalf.

Watch For Common Red Flags

There are certain warning signs that may indicate hidden assets. These include unexplained changes in financial behavior, secretive bank accounts, sudden “loans” to friends or family, or new investments that haven’t been discussed. If your spouse owns a business, it may also be used to hide income or delay receivables. Any changes in access to financial records or pressure to sign documents quickly should also raise concerns.

Why Full Disclosure Matters

In most states, divorce law requires both parties to fully disclose all income, property, debts, and financial accounts. Courts use this information to divide marital assets fairly. When one spouse lies or withholds details, it can result in an uneven division and, in some cases, penalties. Judges do not look favorably on dishonesty, and hiding assets can damage a person’s credibility throughout the divorce.

What We Can Do To Help Uncover Hidden Property

There are legal tools available to help uncover hidden assets. Through the discovery process, we can request detailed financial documents, ask written questions under oath, and take depositions. If necessary, we can also work with forensic accountants to trace money and uncover transfers or accounts that haven’t been disclosed.

In some cases, we may issue subpoenas to banks, employers, or business partners. The goal is to create a full financial picture so the court can make informed decisions about property division, support, and other financial matters.

Protecting Your Interests During Divorce

If you’re concerned your spouse may be hiding money or assets, don’t wait to speak up. The sooner you raise the issue, the better the chance of recovering what you’re entitled to. We always recommend gathering as much financial information as you can, including tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, loan documents, and business records. Even if you don’t have full access, providing what you do have helps us begin the process of uncovering the rest.

Be Honest About Your Own Finances

It’s just as important to be open about your own financial situation. If both parties are transparent, it sets the foundation for a more efficient and fair outcome. Hiding anything—even in response to your spouse’s dishonesty—can backfire and weaken your case.

Let’s Talk About Protecting Your Future

Divorce is stressful enough without having to worry about whether your spouse is being honest. At Robinson & Hadeed, we take these concerns seriously and know how to approach cases where assets may be hidden. You can feel confident in our outcomes as many other lawyers will send their cases to us. If you suspect dishonesty in your divorce, contact us to discuss your situation so you know you have someone advocating for you. We’ll help you move forward with the information and support you need to protect what’s rightfully yours.

The Dos And Don’ts Of A Successful Divorce

/in /by

Going through a divorce is rarely easy, even when both parties agree it’s the right decision. Our Tacoma, WA divorce lawyer knows that emotions run high, finances are involved, and the future can feel uncertain. That’s why it’s so important to approach the process with a clear plan and practical mindset. We’ve worked with many clients over the years and have seen firsthand what can help—and what can make things harder and every year our peers vote us Super Lawyer. Below are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind as you move through your divorce.

Do Prioritize Your Children’s Well-Being

If children are involved, they need to remain the top priority. That means keeping them out of conflict, avoiding blame in front of them, and working toward a parenting plan that supports their needs. Courts look favorably on parents who put their children first. We always encourage respectful communication and flexibility when it comes to schedules and co-parenting.

Don’t Use Your Children As Messengers

It can be tempting to pass messages through your children, especially when communication with your spouse is strained. But doing this puts kids in the middle and creates stress. Stick to direct communication with your spouse or let your attorney handle it if emotions are running high.

Do Keep Accurate Financial Records

Divorce often involves dividing property, assets, and debts. Keep records of all accounts, income, loans, and expenses. This will help us represent you effectively and prevent surprises later on. Organized paperwork can also speed up the process and make financial agreements more fair.

Don’t Hide Assets Or Withhold Information

Trying to hide income, assets, or property will almost always backfire. Courts expect transparency. If it’s discovered that either party is hiding information, it can hurt their credibility and lead to legal consequences. It’s far better to disclose everything upfront and work toward a fair resolution.

Do Communicate Through Your Attorney When Necessary

Some conversations are better handled with legal guidance. If speaking directly with your spouse leads to arguments or confusion, let your attorney step in. This can help reduce stress and keep the conversation focused on productive outcomes.

Don’t Make Emotional Decisions About Money Or Property

It’s understandable to feel attached to certain belongings or financial arrangements. But emotional decisions can lead to poor outcomes in the long run. Try to approach property division as a business matter. We help clients look at the big picture so they’re not making short-term decisions that could have long-term impacts.

Do Take Care Of Yourself

Divorce can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Eat well, get enough rest, and talk to someone you trust. Whether that’s a friend, counselor, or support group, staying grounded will help you make clearer decisions.

Don’t Post About Your Divorce On Social Media

Anything you post online can be used in court. That includes pictures, status updates, and even likes or comments. Even if your privacy settings are strong, it’s best to stay quiet online while the divorce is ongoing.

Do Plan For Life After Divorce

Think about where you want to live, how your budget will change, and what new routines you may need to set up. The more you prepare, the smoother the transition will be. We help our clients look ahead so they’re ready to move forward.

Let’s Talk About What Comes Next

Divorce can be challenging, but having the right support makes a difference. At Robinson & Hadeed, we’re here to help you make decisions that protect your future and your peace of mind. If you’re considering divorce or have questions about your current situation, reach out to us; we have 54 years of family law experience and can help. We’re ready to talk through your next steps and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

How A Family Lawyer Can Help Enforce Court Orders

/in /by

Going through a divorce or child custody case can take a lot of time and energy. When it finally ends with a court order, you expect both sides to follow the terms. But that doesn’t always happen. Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that if your ex is ignoring the agreement—whether it’s about child support, parenting time, or property division—you may need help making sure the order is followed. We have assisted clients with high asset divorces, complicated custody issues, litigation, and more.

This is where a family lawyer can step in. If you’re dealing with someone who refuses to follow a court order, you don’t have to handle it alone. You have legal options, and a lawyer can help you take the right steps to get the outcome you were promised.

Common Issues With Court Orders

After a divorce or custody case, there are usually several things the court puts in writing. These might include child support payments, visitation schedules, spousal support, or who gets certain assets. Each person is legally required to follow the order, but it’s not uncommon for one side to ignore or delay parts of it.

Some common examples include:

  • A parent refusing to drop off the child on time or denying scheduled visits
  • Missed child support or spousal support payment
  • A spouse refusing to turn over property awarded in the divorce
  • One party not following a restraining or protection order

If this sounds familiar, a family lawyer can help you take the issue or modifications back to court.

Legal Tools Available To Enforce Orders

When one party breaks a court order, a lawyer can file a motion to enforce it. This asks the court to step in and require the other person to comply. In some cases, the judge may give the other party a chance to explain. If they can’t give a valid reason, the court can take action.

For example, the judge can:

  • Order back payments or overdue support
  • Award you extra time with your child if visits were denied
  • Find the other party in contempt of court, which could include fines or even jail time
  • Order reimbursement for legal fees

Sometimes, a lawyer may start with a letter or formal notice to encourage cooperation before going back to court. If that doesn’t work, court enforcement becomes the next step.

Why Legal Help Makes A Difference

Trying to enforce a court order on your own can be frustrating. You might not be sure what steps to take, what paperwork to file, or how to present your case to a judge. A lawyer knows what the court expects and how to build a strong argument for enforcement.

They’ll review your order, gather supporting evidence, and represent you in court if needed. If there’s a pattern of violations or intentional disobedience, they can help bring that to the court’s attention.

Attorneys like those at Robinson & Hadeed know how important it is for court orders to be followed. After all, these orders are often put in place to protect children, provide financial support, or bring fairness to both sides. When someone refuses to follow them, the legal system offers ways to correct that.

If you’re dealing with someone who won’t follow the terms of your court order, talk to a family law attorney about your options. Don’t wait too long—getting legal support early can help you take the right steps and protect your rights. With 54 years of family law experience, we can help you with your family law problems. Call today to schedule a consultation and find out how to move forward.

Fighting Over The House During Divorce

/in /by

When a marriage ends, one of the biggest points of conflict is often the family home. It’s not just a financial asset—it’s where you built your life, raised your kids, and created memories. So it’s no surprise that you and your spouse may both want to keep it. Our Tacoma, WA divorce lawyer knows that deciding who keeps the house during divorce is not just about emotion. It’s also about what makes sense legally and financially. Even if your divorce is ending amicably, this can throw a wrench in your plans.

If you’re in this situation, it helps to look at the full picture. The court will consider several factors when deciding who, if anyone, gets to keep the house. Knowing what to expect—and how to prepare—can help you make decisions that protect your future. Each year, our peers vote us Super Lawyer and we want to make sure you are getting the help you need. Give our office a call.

Start By Looking At Ownership And Equity

First, consider how the house is titled. If it’s in both of your names, it’s considered marital property in most cases, even if one of you paid more into it. If it’s in one person’s name, that doesn’t automatically mean the other has no claim. What matters most is whether the house was purchased during the marriage and how it was paid for.

The court will look at the home’s current value and subtract any remaining mortgage or debt. That gives you the equity—the portion of the home that has value after debts are paid. If one of you wants to keep the house, that person will likely need to buy out the other’s share of the equity.

Think About What You Can Afford

Wanting to stay in the home and being able to afford it are two different things. If you’re asking to keep the house, the court will want to see that you can manage the mortgage, taxes, insurance, and upkeep on your own. If you rely on your spouse’s income or if both incomes are needed to cover the mortgage, you may need to reconsider.

On the other hand, if your spouse wants to keep the home, they’ll need to show the court they can afford it. In some cases, the court may order the house to be sold if neither of you can keep it without financial strain.

Consider How It Affects The Rest Of The Settlement

Keeping the house may mean giving up something else. You may need to trade away your share of retirement accounts, vehicles, or other assets to make things even. The court’s goal is to divide property fairly, not necessarily equally. If one person takes on the house, the other may get a larger share of other marital property.

Before making a decision, think about how keeping the house fits into your long-term financial plan. Will you be able to refinance in your name alone? Will it limit your ability to move forward in other areas of your life?

Protect Your Rights And Make Informed Choices

Fighting over the house can turn emotional quickly. It’s important to stay focused on facts, not just feelings. A family lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, review your financial position, and find a strategy that makes sense for you.

Attorneys like those at Robinson & Hadeed have seen firsthand how stressful property disputes can become during divorce. But with the right guidance, you can weigh your options and work toward a solution that supports your goals. If you’re in the middle of a divorce and facing tough questions about who gets the house, don’t try to figure it out on your own. Many other attorneys send their cases to us, so trust us with something this important to you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and talk through your options with a family law attorney who can help you make the right decision for your future.

Fighting For Custody When The Other Parent Is Manipulative

/in /by

Going through a custody battle is hard enough, but when the other parent is manipulative, it can become even more difficult. Whether they are lying to your child, making false claims about you, or trying to control the situation behind the scenes, it’s important to recognize these tactics and respond in a way that protects both your rights and your child’s well-being. If you’re in this situation, our Tacoma, WA custody lawyer knows that you’re not alone. Many parents have had to stand up to unfair behavior while trying to do what’s best for their kids. The legal system is designed to focus on the child’s best interests, and there are steps you can take to make your case stronger, even when the other parent is playing games. We have 54 years of family law experience, so reach out to our team now.

Pay Attention To Their Behavior

Manipulative parents often try to turn children against the other parent. They might use guilt, false stories, or pressure to influence how the child feels about spending time with you. This kind of behavior is not only harmful, but it can also be considered a form of emotional abuse.

Start documenting what’s happening. Keep records of things your child says that seem influenced, or any communication from the other parent that seems controlling or dishonest. Save text messages, emails, or voicemails that show a pattern of manipulation. Over time, this documentation can be useful in court to demonstrate the kind of behavior the other parent is showing. This can help if you want to make custody modifications.

Stay Focused On Your Child’s Needs

It’s easy to get caught up in defending yourself against every false claim or reacting to every upsetting action. But in court, what matters most is how well you’re supporting your child’s emotional and physical needs. Keep that at the center of your case.

Show that you are consistent, reliable, and focused on your child’s health, education, and daily life. Judges pay close attention to which parent is creating a stable and supportive environment. The more you demonstrate that you’re putting your child first, the more that works in your favor.

Use Legal Tools To Protect Your Rights

You don’t have to handle a manipulative co-parent alone. The law provides tools to deal with unfair behavior. For example, if one parent is trying to alienate the child from the other, you may be able to request a custody evaluation or ask the court to appoint a guardian ad litem. These professionals speak to the child, observe both parents, and report back to the judge.

You can also ask the court to modify communication between you and the other parent if they’re using it to harass or intimidate you. In some cases, a judge may order communication to go through a parenting app that tracks messages and keeps a record of all interactions.

Be Prepared And Stay Consistent

Custody decisions aren’t made based on one incident—they’re based on patterns. Keep showing up for your child, stick to your parenting plan, and keep records of anything that shows manipulation or interference. Judges notice when one parent is following the rules and the other is not.

The attorneys at Robinson & Hadeed know how important it is to show the court a full and accurate picture. When the other parent is being dishonest or manipulative, your goal should be to keep everything well-documented and legally focused. That way, you’re not just reacting emotionally—you’re building a strong case. If you’re dealing with a manipulative co-parent and need help protecting your time with your child, now is the time to talk to a family law attorney. The right legal guidance can help you stay focused and take the right steps for your custody case. Our firm specializes in helping with complicated custody situations. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and find out how you can move forward with confidence.

 

Help With Child Support Changes

/in /by

Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that child support orders are designed to meet a child’s needs based on the circumstances at the time they’re created. But life changes—sometimes gradually, sometimes unexpectedly. When that happens, your current child support order might no longer make sense. If your income has dropped, your child’s needs have increased, or your custody schedule has changed, you may need to request a modification.

Courts do allow for child support to be adjusted, but there needs to be a valid reason backed by evidence. You can’t just ask for a change because the arrangement feels unfair—you need to show that something significant has shifted since the order was put in place. We have 54 years of family law experience and are ready to take your call.

Common Reasons To Modify Child Support

A change in income is one of the most common reasons for seeking a modification. If one of you has lost a job, taken a lower-paying position, or had a major reduction in hours, that can impact your ability to pay. On the other hand, if the parent receiving support starts earning significantly more or receives a financial windfall, the court might consider lowering the other parent’s payments.

Changes in custody arrangements can also lead to an adjustment. For example, if the child now spends more time with the paying parent than before, or if there’s a switch in primary custody, the child support order might need to be updated to reflect that.

Other valid reasons include a child developing new medical or educational needs, or a parent taking on additional responsibilities that weren’t present when the original order was issued. The court’s goal is to make sure the support amount still fits the situation today—not the one from years ago.

How To Start The Process

If you think a change is necessary, you’ll need to file a formal request with the court. This typically involves submitting a motion or petition for modification and including documentation that supports your request. That might include pay stubs, tax returns, medical bills, or a revised parenting schedule.

It’s important not to rely on informal agreements. Even if both parents agree to a temporary change, such as reducing the payment for a few months, it won’t be legally binding unless the court approves it. Without that approval, the original order stays in effect—and unpaid support can still be collected, along with interest.

Be Ready For A Court Review

After you file for a modification, the court will schedule a hearing or review, so it is crucial to have a family lawyer by your side. Both sides will have a chance to present their arguments and provide evidence. The judge will look at the current income of both parents, the needs of the child, and how much time each parent spends with the child. Based on that information, they’ll decide whether to grant the change and what the new amount should be.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we work with parents who need help modifying their child support arrangements. Whether you’re seeking a change or responding to one, it’s important to take the right steps and be prepared. If you believe your current order no longer reflects your situation, contact us today. We are highly rated by clients on Avvo and are prepared to review your case. We’ll help you take action with a plan that supports your family’s needs.