Revisiting Legal Obligations When Circumstances Change
Just about any divorce decree or family court order on child support, spousal support or visitation issues has a hidden term that probably doesn't even appear on the page: "this obligation is subject to modification if a later significant change of circumstances will justify it." As people's incomes go up or down, their health improves or deteriorates, or the basic needs of their children change, they might need to seek a court's approval of a modification proposal.
If you need a lawyer's advice about the modification or enforcement of a family court order following a divorce or paternity decree, contact me, Jim Wagman. For more than 25 years, I have advised people in New York's Hudson Valley about the best ways to adjust old family obligations to new circumstances. Call the office of James M. Wagman, Attorney at Law, for advice about the modification or enforcement of family court obligations.
Call 866-901-8742 in Greene County and Ulster County
On modification issues, I can give you a good idea of the nature and extent of the changes that will justify a reduction or increase in support payments. These might include the loss of a job, a medical crisis, a remarriage or winning the lottery. Marginal changes in circumstances won't normally convince a court to raise or lower a child support payment, but substantial changes that significantly affect a person's needs or ability to make payments generally will.
Sometimes people let their obligations go into default instead of seeking the modification order that would protect them from enforcement proceedings. If you need help enforcing your right to receive child support or enjoy unobstructed visitation, or if you need advice about your exposure to penalties for defaulting on your obligations, I can advise you about your options and show you the most effective ways to achieve your goals.
Whether your problem involves either side of a modification proposal or an enforcement action, I can help you. For additional information, contact the Catskill office of James M. Wagman, Attorney at Law.
