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How Do I Modify My Child Support Amount in Illinois

Child support is an essential aspect of any divorce or separation agreement. However, circumstances can change over time, and it may become necessary to modify a child support order. If you find yourself in this situation in Illinois, here's what you need to know about modifying child support.

The first step in modifying child support is to demonstrate that there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was entered. A substantial change in circumstances can include a significant increase or decrease in the income of one or both parents, changes in the child's needs or expenses, a change in the parenting time arrangement, or a change in the child's living situation, such as a move to a different state or country.

Once you have identified a substantial change in circumstances, you must file a petition for modification with the court that issued the original child support order. The petition must include an affidavit that sets forth the reasons for the requested modification and any supporting documentation.

The responding party has 30 days to file a response to the petition. If the responding party does not file a response, the court may enter a default judgment in favor of the requesting party. If the responding party does file a response, the court will schedule a hearing to consider the evidence and arguments presented by both parties.

At the hearing, the requesting party must demonstrate that there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was entered and that the requested modification is in the best interests of the child. The court will consider factors such as the child's needs, the financial circumstances of both parents, and any other relevant factors in determining whether to modify child support.

If the court determines that there has been a substantial change in circumstances, it will calculate the new child support amount based on the statutory guidelines outlined in 750 ILCS 5/505. The guidelines take into account the income of both parents, the number of children, and other factors to determine the appropriate amount of child support.

It is important to note that the court may deviate from the guidelines if it finds that the application of the guidelines would be inappropriate. The court may consider factors such as the financial resources and needs of the child, the standard of living the child would have enjoyed had the marriage not been dissolved, the physical and emotional condition of the child, and any other relevant factors in determining whether to deviate from the guidelines.

After the court has calculated the new child support amount, it will enter an order modifying the original child support order. The modified order will outline the new child support amount and any other relevant terms, such as the duration of the modification or any conditions that must be met for the modification to continue.

In conclusion, modifying child support in Illinois requires a showing of a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was entered. The requesting party must file a petition for modification with the court and demonstrate the need for the requested modification at a hearing. The court will calculate the new child support amount based on the statutory guidelines and may deviate from the guidelines if appropriate. Working with an experienced family law attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and increase your chances of success in modifying child support.


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