Finding out that your child has special needs can be overwhelming emotionally and financially – especially if you are raising them on your own. Getting more child support from your ex-partner can help meet additional costs effectively.
Modifying your child support
To request more child support, you will need to show the court why you need it. This can be a complicated process, but an experienced family law attorney can help make it less stressful.
Here are five important documents you will need to make a strong case:
- Medical records: Gather all your child’s records, including diagnoses and treatment plans. This will help show the court how much care your child needs.
- Therapy and treatment costs: Keep records of therapy sessions, such as physical therapy, and treatment plans from doctors. This will help show how much these things cost.
- Equipment and supply costs: Keep receipts for necessary medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, and supplies, like specialized educational tools. Make sure to include both one-time expenses and any recurring costs.
- Additional care-related expenses: List other direct costs related specifically to caring for your child’s condition, such as transportation costs for frequent medical appointments or specialized childcare services.
- Expert testimonies/letters: Get letters from your child’s doctors explaining their needs and how much care they require. This will help prove that you need more child support.
A family lawyer can help you organize these documents before presenting them in court. The court will consider these factors when deciding if you should get more child support.
As a custodial parent, you have the right to seek additional support to ensure your child receives the care they need. With the proper information and support, you can focus on what matters most – providing the best possible life for your child.