Don’t Wait to Request a Modification of Support

​In response to the public health crisis, businesses across California have had to adapt their services or close, resulting in a reduction of income or loss of jobs for many. Similarly, the Courts have adjusted to public health orders by limiting services and are currently conducting hearings for emergency issues only for a limited time. However, the LA County Courts are accepting new filings for family law issues.
If your income has been affected by the public health crisis, you can request and file a modification of child support and or spousal support now. Requesting a modification of support is extremely important if your financial circumstances have changed because state law prohibits the Courts from retroactively modifying a support order, even under the current crisis. So, even if the Courts are not hearing modification cases at this time, you are still able to preserve your right to modification.
It is imperative to request a modification of support soon after a job loss or significant pay reduction because the Court can’t back-date modifications. Thus, if you stop paying your court-ordered support, you will not be able to avoid accumulating arrears. If you need more support due to a job loss, you will also need to request a modification of support because you cannot go back to a date earlier than the date the request was mailed or served.
If your financial circumstances have changed due to the pandemic, whether you are currently paying or receiving support according to a Court order, The Reape-Rickett Law Firm can help you navigate the modification process. Contact us today at (888) 846-6166 and mention this ad to see if you qualify for assistance with reduced rates. Our team is ready to help you.