This is a continuation of our previous blog going over how clients either by themselves or utilizing child support lawyers can modify their child support agreement. Check out part one here.
What Court can grant modifications?
Only courts that have jurisdiction over the issues presented in the case and authority over the people involved may grant a modification. In Missouri, there is a uniform law that establishes a court’s authority to modify a parenting plan. If both parties and the child are still living in the state where the court declared their original judgment, then that state has the “continuing jurisdiction” to continue to make changes. This excludes all other states’ courts. If a parent or child moves out of the state, or the parenting plan was finalized in a different state than where they reside, then child support lawyers should be consulted to determine which court will hear your case favorably.
Child Support lawyers modification steps:
- Filed motion
- Service of Summons
- Completion of the litigant awareness program
- Completion of a parent education program
- Mediation
- Discovery
- Pre-trial hearing
- Trial
- Entry of judgment
Filing a Stipulation for parenting plan modification:
The “Motion to Modify Child Support” is a form that must be formally completed and verified by the court before filing. This means both parents must confirm that every aspect of the document is true. It must also be signed by a notary. This can also be done at most banks for a small fee.
You may also have child support lawyers to file the following forms:
- Proposed parenting plan
- Family Court Information Sheet
- Confidential filing information sheet
- Form 14 (if Child support is being altered)
- Certificates of completion of the Litigant Awareness Program and a parent education program.
- Proposed Judgment on Stipulation
What does it cost to file?
Filing fees are dependent on your local court rules. However, most of this information will be posted online. You can use the “find a court” feature to find your court, some courts won’t even charge a filing fee.
More Questions?
If you have any more questions or are in need of representation, do not hesitate to contact the legal experts at Flesner Wentzel Family Law today!