Raising a child in Oklahoma is expensive. As parents, we are obligated to financially support our children until adulthood.
The purpose of child support is to ensure both parents are contributing to their child’s expenses, even if they’re divorced. The court looks at multiple factors when determining how much each parent should pay. But what if your circumstances change? Can you request a support modification?
How is support determined?
Oklahoma uses the income shares model to determine child support. Its goal is to provide the child with the same financial environment as if their parents lived in the same home. It considers both parents’ combined monthly gross income and then looks at each income as a percentage to determine their support responsibilities. Several other factors go into calculating child support, such as:
- Number of children
- Custody arrangements
- If the child has special needs or additional expenses
- Which parent is providing health insurance
However, life rarely stays the same, and sometimes situations arise that make modifications to child support necessary. Oklahoma permits child support modifications when there is a “substantial change in circumstances”, such as:
- A significant increase or decrease in income, including job loss
- The child’s needs change due to medical conditions, educational expenses or other unforeseen circumstances
- Changes in custody arrangements
- One parent will be incarcerated for more than 180 consecutive days
- The child reaches the age of majority
To request a child support modification, the parent needs to file a motion with the court outlining the change in circumstances that justify the modification. It’s also essential to present support evidence, such as pay stubs, a termination letter from your employer, medical bills or school invoices.
If the court finds your claims credible, they will schedule a hearing where both parents can present evidence. You will want to work with someone who can guide you through the process, ensure you understand your rights and obligations and advocate on your behalf.