Child support orders are essential for ensuring a child’s financial needs are met following a separation or divorce. However, circumstances change—income shifts, health issues arise, or children’s needs evolve. When this happens, Michigan law allows for the modification of child support orders. At Zanolli Family Law, P.C., we help residents of Southfield navigate the legal process of modifying support orders effectively and with confidence.

Step 1: Determine If You Qualify for a Modification

To modify a child support order in Michigan, there must be a significant change in circumstances. Common reasons include:

• A substantial change in either parent's income
• A parent losing or changing jobs
• A change in the child’s living situation
• Changes in healthcare or daycare costs
• A parent becoming incarcerated

In general, Michigan allows you to request a review every 36 months, or sooner if there’s a qualifying change.

Step 2: File a Motion or Request a Review

There are two primary ways to initiate a modification:

1. File a Motion with the Court – You or your attorney can file a "Motion Regarding Support" with the family court that issued the original order.
2. Request a Review by the Friend of the Court (FOC) – You can ask the FOC to review the order if it has been 36 months or more since the last review, or you can demonstrate a significant change in circumstances.

At Zanolli Family Law, P.C., we can help you determine the best route for your situation and prepare the necessary legal documents.

Step 3: Attend the Hearing

Once the motion is filed or the FOC completes their review, a hearing may be scheduled. You’ll need to present:

• Proof of income
• Documentation of expenses (e.g., healthcare, daycare)
• Any other relevant evidence showing why the modification is justified

Having an attorney represent you at this stage can significantly strengthen your case and ensure all legal procedures are followed correctly.

Step 4: Await the Judge’s Decision

After reviewing the evidence and hearing both sides, the judge will decide whether to grant or deny the request. If approved, the new child support order will replace the previous one and be enforceable immediately.

Step 5: Ensure Compliance

Once the order is modified, both parents must adhere to it. Failing to comply can result in legal consequences, including wage garnishment or contempt of court proceedings.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Even though child support modification is a common legal process, it involves strict documentation, legal standards, and court procedures. At Zanolli Family Law, P.C., we work closely with Southfield families to help them request fair and appropriate modifications that reflect their current circumstances. Whether you are seeking an increase or a decrease in support, we’re here to protect your child’s best interests and advocate for your rights.