Support orders are common in divorce cases in San Diego. They require one spouse to pay the other for a specific purpose, such as to support children born of the marriage (child support) or make up for the income that one spouse will lose (spousal support). It is possible to modify a support order in San Diego if your situation changes. However, the courts will only agree to modify a support order if there is a valid reason to do so. You may need assistance from a divorce attorney in San Diego to prove your case.
The value of a financial support order in a divorce case will be based on factors such as both parents’ debts and financial obligations, both parents’ incomes, and the needs of the child. The courts recognize, however, that things change. If after your divorce you find yourself in a situation where you are unable to fulfill a financial support obligation, you are allowed to request a modification. These situations may include:
The loss of your job
The loss of another source of income, such as government benefits
A demotion
Child custody or visitation changes
A change in the size of your family
A criminal conviction and jail sentence
A serious or disabling injury
Note that you could also require a modification of support if you start earning more money. The courts rule on support order modification requests in San Diego on a case-by-case basis. A judge will carefully review your reason for the request to determine if it is valid. If so, the courts may agree to change your support obligation. If not, the existing order will remain in effect.