Opinion ID: 1745929
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Increased Child Support

Text: Mr. Leahy contends that the trial court's order of child support modification must be set aside for the following reasons: (1) the amount awarded is in excess of the presumed amount computed by using the Missouri Child Support Guideline Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations and there was no specific finding that the presumed amount is unjust or inappropriate; (2) there is insufficient evidence to support the trial court's finding that there has been a continual and substantial change of circumstances since the date of the last modification; (3) Ms. Clapp failed to specifically request support for college expenses in the  motion to modify; and (4) Anna's desire to attend Boston University should not have been recognized by the trial court as a reasonable and special need. While it is true that the child support awarded does exceed the amount set out in the guidelines, this fact alone does not require the trial court's order be set aside. The commentary in Form 14 explicitly states that [e]ducational expenses such as college, private schools, and tutoring are not factored into the attached schedule. Furthermore, Rule 88.01 provides: When determining the amount of child support to order, a court or administrative agency shall consider all relevant factors, including: