Hingham Child Support Lawyer

Child support and its duration in Massachusetts are set forth in Ch. 208, s. 28. For children of unmarried parents, the same is provided under Ch. 209C, s. 9. Both statutes state that child support is to be paid until a child turns 23, albeit under restricted circumstances as the child ages. 

These Circumstances Include:

• Emancipation: This occurs when a young adult chooses to no longer be supported by his/her parents. They can do this by getting married, joining the military, or moving out of the parents' home.
• Changes to Child Support Guidelines: Massachusetts child support guidelines are usually revised every 4 years. This has the potential to affect future payments.
• Disability: If a child is disabled, physically or mentally, the duration of child support payments can be extended indefinitely.

Can Child Support Be Modified?

After a divorce, the life circumstances of each parent can change considerably, as can the needs of their child or children.

Child Support May Need to Be Adjusted If:

• Either parent loses their job
• Either parent's income substantially increases
• Either parent receives a large inheritance
• The child is injured or falls ill
• Expenses related to the child naturally increase as the child ages

Obtaining a modification for a child support order is not an automatic or easy process. This change must be requested and supported with evidence.

Modifying Child Support Orders

Life circumstances can change, and with it, the need to modify child support orders may arise. Whether you are seeking to increase or decrease child support payments, our experienced Hingham child support attorneys can guide you through the legal process. We understand the complexities of Massachusetts child support laws and can help you navigate the modification process.

Reasons for modifying child support orders may include:

• Change in income for either parent
• Change in the child's needs or expenses
• Change in custody arrangements
• Job loss or change in employment status

Our team is dedicated to advocating for the best interests of you and your children, and we are committed to helping you achieve a fair and reasonable child support arrangement.

Working With a Child Support Attorney in Hingham

Deciding whether to hire an attorney can be difficult when you are already under financial and emotional strain. A lawyer who regularly practices in the family courts that serve Hingham, such as the Plymouth Probate and Family Court, can explain what to expect at each step and help you understand how the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines are likely to apply to your case. This guidance allows you to make informed choices about settlement, mediation, or litigation rather than reacting in the moment without a plan.

When you work with a child support attorney in Hingham, you can get help gathering pay records, health insurance information, and child care costs so that your financial picture is presented clearly to the court. Your attorney can also help you prepare for negotiations with the other parent, anticipate areas of disagreement, and develop proposals that focus on stability for your children. Having a clear strategy tailored to your goals can reduce stress and help you stay focused on long-term outcomes instead of short-term conflict.

Contact Our Child Support Lawyers in Hingham and Newton Today

Whether you are getting a divorce or you are the primary caregiver of a child and you are not married to the other parent of your child, we are here to guide and assist you. We are committed to ensuring your child support is appropriate. You can rely on our South Shore child support attorney to protect your child's best interests and to make sure you understand the progress of your case so there are no surprises.