Child support is crucial for maintaining a child’s quality of life and ensuring their well-being. Thus, it needs to accurately reflect the financial situation of both parents and the needs of the child.
If you are unhappy with a support order issued by the court, know that you have the right to contest it. Whether you are a paying parent who feels the amount is unfair or a receiving parent who believes the amount is insufficient, you may be able to challenge the order under certain circumstances.
Grounds for contesting a child support order
In Connecticut, you can contest a child support order if you believe there was an error in the calculation of the support amount. Some common grounds for contesting an order include:
- Inaccurate or incomplete financial information provided by the other parent
- Failure to consider extraordinary expenses, such as medical or educational costs
- Incorrect application of the Connecticut Child Support Guidelines
- Miscalculation of parenting time or custody arrangements
- Errors in determining either parent’s income
In Connecticut, you typically have a short window to contest a child support order after it has been issued. While there is no strict deadline, it is advisable to file your contest as soon as possible.
To contest a child support order, you must file a notice of appeal or an objection specifying the grounds for your request. You will need to provide supporting documentation, such as financial records. The court will then schedule a hearing to review your motion.
Seeking professional guidance
Contesting a child support order can be complex. It is essential to seek the advice of an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and help you build a compelling case.
Remember, child support is about ensuring your child’s well-being. Whether you are seeking an increase or decrease, the focus should always be on providing for your child’s needs in a fair and reasonable manner.
