Opinion ID: 1111296
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 8

Heading: Calculation of Support on Remand

Text: Given the potential factual complexity of such disputes, we decline to attempt to prescribe a single formula for recalculating child support following a change of circumstances after the parties have negotiated a child support obligation in an amount exceeding the minimum required under Rule 90.3. We nonetheless conclude that such an obligor, after proving a material change of circumstances, is not entitled to an automatic reversion to the Rule 90.3 schedule. Michael agreed to waive the cap. As a result, he agreed to pay twice the minimum child support Rule 90.3 would have required, and agreed to a proportional reduction for each child who chose to live with him. Since this was the framework of the parties' negotiated agreement, any subsequent recalculation must take this as its starting point. On remand, if Michael is found to have experienced a permanent material change of circumstances based on a decrease in income, one possible approach would be to reduce his support payments pro rata; for example a 20% decrease in income would result in a 20% decrease in the agreed-upon support. This is just one suggested approach, however; we leave it to the discretion of the trial courts in this and other cases to explore other methods of recalculating support. In this case, for example, other possible changes, such as increases in Stephanie's income or earning capacity, or the need to provide support equitably for the children in the custody of both parents, may complicate a simple pro rata comparison.