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Child Support

Modification of Child Support

Assisting Clients With Child Support Modifications in Florida

In Florida, either parent may petition for modification of child support as long as the change in child support requested amounts to 15% or $50 (whichever amount is greater), according to § 61.30(b) of the Florida Statutes. Child support modifications are typically requested and granted based on a “substantial change in circumstances.”

The support agreement that once worked for you may no longer be sustainable. Whether you need to file for a support modification or you are responding to a child support modification petition by contesting it, Robert Sparks Attorneys is here for you. With our Board Certified family lawyers on staff, you can trust our knowledge of Florida family law to secure you the best possible result.

Call us today at (813) 710-4816 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our lawyers in Tampa.

How the State Determines “Substantial Change”

The state will consider a few different factors when determining if there is a substantial change of circumstances that warrants a modification. Some include:

  • Income
  • Expenses
  • Disability
  • Other state/federal benefits
  • Health

One common reason a parent will petition for a child support modification is if they lose their Job or experience a substantial pay cut. On the other hand, parents with primary custody can petition for an increase in child support if their child develops a health condition requiring additional medical care.

Filing the Petition 

Parents who file a petition to modify child support are required to notify the other party in the case by way of a supplemental petition. The recipient has 20 days to respond to the petition. After this, there are three possible scenarios:

  1. The case goes into default
  2. The petition is uncontested
  3. The case is contested

Default is when the other party fails to respond within 20 days. Uncontested is when the respondent agrees with the petition, and contested is when the respondent files a counter-petition because they do not agree with the request for child support modification.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does the Court Calculate Child Support if One Parent Is Self-Employed?

The court takes a detailed approach when establishing or modifying child support for self-employed parents in Tampa. Instead of relying solely on pay stubs, the court requires full disclosure of business earnings, expenses, tax returns, and bank statements. Judges aim to determine each parent’s actual net income, accounting for business deductions that are legitimate but ensuring income isn't underreported. In some instances, forensic accountants may be necessary if there are disputes about income or if extensive business assets are involved. Given Tampa’s diverse business landscape, including many self-employed professionals and entrepreneurs, this can be especially relevant. An experienced child support attorney in Tampa will work with financial professionals as needed and advocate for fair consideration of business-related earnings and deductions under Florida law.

Can Child Support Be Modified Temporarily Due to Job Loss or Medical Emergencies?

Yes, courts in Tampa can modify child support orders temporarily if there is a valid, documented reason—such as a sudden job loss, temporary disability, or significant medical emergency. However, the parent requesting the change must demonstrate to the court that the hardship materially affects their ability to pay, and provide proper documentation (e.g., termination letters, medical bills, or physician statements). Temporary modifications are typically set for a specific period and may be reviewed at a later date once circumstances change. It's crucial to file a petition as soon as possible; informal arrangements between parents are not enforceable. Working with a child support lawyer in Tampa can help you secure timely relief and ensure compliance with legal requirements at the local court level.

Contact Robert Sparks Attorneys Today

Our law firm represents clients on both sides of child support modification cases. In every matter, we work with our clients and the other party involved to achieve an amicable resolution. Our goal is to secure the best possible result for you and your family as quickly and smoothly as possible. 

To learn more about how our Tampa attorneys can help you, call us today.

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