This is the first post in a series on how Las Vegas fathers can modify their child support payments. I have decided to write on this issue due to the fact that, unfortunately, many dads make the mistake of engaging in “self help” when it comes to child support. Simply paying what you can afford, as opposed to what you are ordered to pay, can result in your being held in contempt of court. If you need to modify your monthly payment then there is a process which you must go through. My goal with this series is to provide information which will help dads to understand their options. If you require assistance then contact my office to speak with an attorney.
I will be addressing multiple topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will analyze include:
- An explanation of how child support is calculated in Nevada
- Situations in which a father may request a modification of his support
- The risk of a court finding that a father is “underemployed”
- Instances in which the Court will deviate from Nevada’s standard child support formula
There are multiple reasons why I feel it is important to address these topics. First, while Nevada’s child support calculations can seem straightforward, there are many nuances to calculating the income of individuals in the construction industry, who earn tips, etc. Second, there are multiple instances in which a dad may request a modification of their court ordered payment; these instances include a mandatory three year review as well as instances in which one’s income changes by twenty percent or more. Third, it is important to understand that the Court may set support at a level higher than what is justified by your income if you are found to be underemployed. Finally, there are several instances in which a Judge may set support higher or lower than an amount dictated by your income.
It is vital that you speak with an attorney and that you go through the legal process if you need to modify your child support. Las Vegas fathers sometimes make the mistake of simply paying what they can afford and, as a result, they find themselves being held in contempt of court. Such a finding can lead to fines, jail time, and having to pay the mother’s legal fees. I regularly assist dads with child support matters. Contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.