When The Custodial Parent is Financially Irresponsible

Law Offices of Stephanie L. Mahdavi A Professional Law Corporation Child Support

Although it’s okay for custodial parents to spoil their kids once in a while, child support should be spent wisely on things that benefit the child. Custodial parents who misuse child support money or spend it on themselves can be charged with child abuse or child neglect. The money should be used for child expenses only. It’s unfair to the children and to the parent providing the support to use the money on something other than it was intended. If you feel your ex-spouse is taking advantage of the money you have been providing for your children, contact Westlake Village child support attorney Stephanie L. Mahdavi.

Modifying your custody order

It’s possible to modify child support because one of the parents has been irresponsible. In fact, you can modify your custody payments anytime you wish. But it may require a throughout the investigation or charge against the irresponsible parent. You will have to prove your ex-was abusive or neglectful with the help of an experienced attorney. As long as the modification serves the best interests of the child, you are in good hands, you may have a chance. But again, you must prove that there has been a significant change in circumstances.

Changing the amount of support

The party seeking to modify child support payments has to prove the modification is required and it’ll benefit the child in so many ways. Perhaps you think the payments are unfair and your ex-misspent the money. Whatever your situation is, make sure you hire a well-versed attorney to handle your legal circumstances. Some factors that may allow changes in the child support amount include:

  • Unemployment
  • The spouse providing the support is struggling financially
  • A child with special needs or who needs extra medical care

What about if you believe your child is in danger?

If you believe your child has been abused or neglected, it may constitute good grounds for modification as long as you can prove it. You must first seek appropriate legal assistance to assess the dangers your child has been exposed to. Some things the court will consider include:

  • Domestic violence
  • If the child is facing an immediate danger
  • If the child doesn’t want to stay with your ex because he or she has been abusive

Relocation

This is another important reason why you may seek a support modification as relocation tends to interrupt the child’s routine. If your ex is moving to another state you need to consider new expenses as some states can be more costly than others. Whether medical costs, education, or extracurricular activities, all needs should be met. But what happens when your ex is not accountable about how your child support payments are spent? It’s common for the custodial parents to lie after a relocation. It’s easy since the other parent is not around to check on spending. If you are having this problem, your best choice may be reaching out to a Westlake Village child support attorney.

Do I need an attorney?

Child support, spousal support as well as the division of assets are some of the most complex issues during the divorce process. It’s common for spouses to disagree about these issues. You may not be able to handle these matters on your own. There are many laws you are not familiar with, which can be applied to your specific case. Only an attorney will be able to tell you what’s the best legal course of action.

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