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St. Louis Child Support Modification Lawyer
By Jennifer Piper• January 15, 2024Posted in
Missouri state law allows modifications to be made to existing child support arrangements in certain circumstances. If you are seeking to modify your current child support arrangement or your former spouse is requesting a modification and you wish to contest it, it is wise to consult with a seasoned family law attorney. A St. Louis child support modification lawyer can review the details of your case and explain what the next steps may entail. Requirements to Alter Child Support Certain requirements must be met in order to modify child support arrangements. While either parent may file for a modification, adjustments can only be made to a child support order if a substantial and continuous change in either party’s or your child’s circumstances has occurred to…
How Long Does It Take To Modify Child Support?
By Jennifer Piper• August 19, 2024Posted in
The process of modifying child support modification can be frustrating, especially if you are facing an urgent financial change. Understanding the timeline and what factors influence it can help you better prepare and manage expectations. On average, the process of modifying child support can take anywhere from six months to a year and a half. In some cases, it might take even longer. This range is broad because the duration depends on the specifics of each case. Factors That Affect the Timeline for Modification Reasons for Modifying Child Support Several situations might necessitate a modification of child support, including: Conclusion Modifying child support is a complex and lengthy process, but understanding the factors that influence the timeline can help manage your expectations. If you’re considering…
What Happens if You Fall Behind on Child Support Payments?
By Jennifer Piper• April 27, 2026Posted in
If you fall behind on child support payments, you can face serious enforcement actions including wage garnishment, suspension of licenses, court contempt, and even jail time. You also have options to request a child support modification if your financial situation has changed, but you must act quickly to protect yourself. Understanding Enforcement Actions When you don’t keep up with child support, what happens next depends on whether a government enforcement agency is already handling your case. If the Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) is already involved, they will take action. They can set up a wage withholding from your paycheck if one isn’t already in place. They can also pursue actions like garnishing your bank accounts or seizing assets. On top of that, they…
St. Louis Child Custody Modification Lawyer
By Jennifer Piper• January 15, 2024Posted in
While child custody orders are final once entered by a St. Louis family law court, specific changes in one or both parent’s circumstances could serve as a basis for a modification of your custody order. It is crucial to consult with a dedicated family law attorney if you are interested in filing a request for a child custody modification. A knowledgeable St. Louis child custody modification lawyer can advise you on your available legal options and promote the best interests of your child or children. Contested Versus Uncontested Custody Modifications While some child custody disputes involve issues such as where the child will live when a parent wishes to move out of state, other modifications concern which parent the child will be with on any…
Making Changes: Modifying Child Support
By Jennifer Piper• February 19, 2024Posted in
As life progresses, so do our circumstances, and sometimes these changes require modifications to child support agreements. Whether it’s due to changes in income, adjustments in custody arrangements, or other unforeseen circumstances, modifying child support can become a necessary task. In this blog post, we will provide steps to help you navigate the process. Modifying Child Support The Role of Mediation and Collaboration Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding child support, child support modifications or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.
7 Common Reasons for Modifying Child Custody
By Jennifer Piper• August 26, 2024Posted in
There are many reasons why you might need to modify an existing custody order to better suit the changing needs of your child and family. As life progresses, changes are inevitable. This is especially true in questions related to child custody. Here are some of the most common reasons that child custody orders are changed. 1. Changes in your Child’s Needs As your child grows, their needs change. A custody arrangement that worked well for a toddler might not be suitable for a teenager. Older children often have more activities, such as sports, clubs, and social events. If one parent is better able to transport the child to these activities or provide support for their interests, a modification may be necessary. Additionally, as children mature,…
St. Louis Child Support Lawyer
By Jennifer Piper• January 15, 2024Posted in
Child support is based on the legal theory that parents who do not live together should both support their children financially. It is a recurring payment made by one parent to the other to help them cover expenses associated with raising a child and to ensure that the children have the same standard of living in each household. When setting an amount for child support, a judge must examine the incomes of both parents, the number of children involved, and the existing custody arrangement, among other factors. You should contact a St. Louis child support lawyer for help with requesting financial assistance from your child’s other parent, modifying an existing court order, or improving your understanding of how it can be enforced. Regardless of your…
Can Child Custody Orders Be Changed?
By Jennifer Piper• November 17, 2025Posted in
Child custody orders can be changed if there has been a change in circumstances and the new arrangement is in your child’s best interest. In Missouri, you can modify custody, decision-making authority, or parenting time through the court. Many parents choose to resolve these matters privately through Mediation or the Collaborative Divorce process because those approaches offer privacy and allow you to create solutions that truly fit your family’s needs. Custody and Parenting Plans Can Change Under Missouri law, any part of a custody arrangement can be modified. That includes who makes decisions for the child, where your child attends school, and how parenting time is divided. To request a change, you must show that circumstances have changed since the original order and that the…
Common Divorce Fear: Divorce Will Harm My Children
By Jennifer Piper• July 22, 2024Posted in
One of the biggest fears you may have when considering divorce or separation from your partner is the impact it will have on your children. It is natural to worry that ending your relationship could harm them. However, it is important to know that divorce or separation doesn’t have to harm your children if you handle your separation thoughtfully and sensitively. Understand the Impact of Conflict Divorce or separation can negatively affect your children, but it largely depends on how you and your spouse manage it. If your separation is filled with anger, fighting, and negativity, it can be very harmful. Arguing in front of your children, speaking badly about the other parent in their presence, or creating tense situations during exchanges can leave lasting…
Child Custody: A Guide to Modifications
By Jennifer Piper• February 26, 2024Posted in
Exploring adjustments to child custody or support arrangements can be complex, yet it’s a journey that you may need to undertake. If you’re contemplating a modification regarding child custody, this guide is designed to simplify the process. Modifying Child Custody Embracing Mediation and Collaboration Mediation and collaborative law offer more amicable solutions to handle modifications for you and your family. Many parenting plans advocate or even require using these methods before resorting to legal avenues. Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding child custody, child custody modifications or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.