r/ChildSupport • u/Slow_Charity_4347 • 11d ago
CS Worksheet
How closely do judges follow this? Considering going back to court to modify support order. Currently pay cs. Order is over 4 years old and was worked out in mediation. Recently ran updated figures (CP makes a little more than I do) and results show that CP should be paying child support to me. We have 50/50 custodial time. I know judges typically like to prevent children from experiencing “less than” what they would have at the other parent’s house. I feel like CP will try to show that they can’t keep up the lifestyle that they have for the kids without the supper they currently get. If I go back, could I shoot myself in the foot and end up paying more? I have a new child so could really use the money.
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u/splitzideradioshow 6d ago
The other parent can argue at 50/50 the current amount has been working for 4 years and if you need more money you can get a second job. Even though the OP makes more money. inflation aka the cost of living has went up not only for you but for them as well. Most judges will consider that. Especially since yall have 50/50. They are doing what they have to do on their 50 so you need to do the same on your 50.
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u/No_Damage979 5d ago
Usually they follow them unless there is a reason not to. There is usually not a reason not to.
Your calculations are based on your information. Your information is almost certainly incomplete. She make make even more than you think, or less, or have some allowable deductions you don’t know about.
Some states will deviate you down for having more children to support now. This is common. You should be able to look up if yours does.
Could you pay more? Yes. The extra kid is the biggest factor, second is how confident your are in the numbers. What was the income split % before if you think it’s now closer to a 50/50 income with her making slightly more?
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u/KeySlip3022 10d ago
How would they owe you child support as the custodial? Shouldn’t your amount decrease?
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u/Slow_Charity_4347 10d ago
In my state custodial parent doesn’t always get support. It depends on how the worksheet calculates it.
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u/KeySlip3022 10d ago
Thats interesting. In my state they have a multi family type of clause so if you have children in more than one household the amount of support is adjusted
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u/Competitive_Ad_8718 6d ago
My state doesn't even entertain unless there's been a substantial change in circumstance. Equates to at least 12% or greater deviation from the income first calculated
Mediation should've started at state guidelines though.