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What to Do When You Can’t Afford Child Support

What to Do When You Can’t Afford Child Support – Advice from a Family Attorney in Tampa

As any family attorney in Tampa, will tell you, a parent who has come up short with child support isn’t being a stereotypical “deadbeat.” Often, missed payments will arise from extenuating financial difficulties that come about from a loss of a job, the sudden onset of financial hardship, or a medical emergency. Simply put, missing child support payments are more common than one would think.

If you find yourself coming up short on paying support for your child and divorced spouse, then it might feel as if you are running short on options. However, you do have them. Here is how you can get back on track with your child support payments.

Renegotiate the Terms of your Child Support Payments

A rather unfair assumption about the American legal system is that it is immutable. However, the opposite is true. Judges are not monolithic dictators–they can hear about how your circumstances have changed and are willing to redefine the terms of your child support payments.

It is possible to meet with the judge to redefine the terms of your child support and alimony. They will consider any changes to your employment or financial situation and can make it so that it is easier to meet your obligations to your divorced spouse and child. A family attorney can help you work out the details behind this process.

As with any actions that require the courts, proving a financial hardship or drastic change of circumstances will require sufficient documentation. Be prepared to build your case with paystubs, proof of the onset of significant bills, and similar items. If you are unsure how to begin the process, be sure to consult with an experienced family attorney.