This is the first post in a series of articles discussing when a father’s child support obligations may be reduced in Las Vegas, Nevada due to a reduction in income. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Las Vegas residents have been laid off or furloughed from their jobs. For some, the circumstances are temporary, however, others may see a drastic change in their income for the foreseeable future. If so, it may be possible to seek a reduction in child support obligations as a result. The goal of this series is to educate fathers on when they may ask the Clark County Family Court to modify support payments and how the court may respond in light of the pandemic. If you need assistance with a child support reduction request, contact my office to speak with a fathers’ rights attorney.
This article will focus on the following key subjects:
- When the court will consider reducing one’s child support obligations
- How the court will evaluate such requests in light of COVID-19
- The requirement that a father must seek meaningful employment
When unemployment or income reduction impacts one’s ability to meet child support obligations, it is possible in some circumstances to seek relief from the court. I felt it was important to address these issues in light of the COVID-19 pandemic for a variety of reasons. First, fathers who are considering asking for a reduction in their support obligations should understand when the court will entertain such requests. Second, parents may request a review of child support obligations once every three years or more frequently if one or the other parent has experienced an income change of 20% or more. Under normal circumstances, the court would not consider a temporary income change as a valid reason to modify an existing support order. Given the widespread economic impact of COVID-19, however, the court may be more likely to adjust a father’s obligation until income levels return to their pre-pandemic levels. Third, regardless of the reason for the income change, fathers are required to seek meaningful employment. Fathers should be aware of this requirement and how it may impact the court’s evaluation of their request. An experienced fathers’ rights lawyer can help you understand your options and assist you with the process.
I understand how these difficult economic times can negatively impact a parent’s ability to sustain current child support obligations. My office represents fathers in a variety of family law issues, including divorces, child custody, and child support adjustments. Contact my office today to schedule a consultation.