Can a parent with physical custody of a child in Rhode Island waive RI child support? The short answer is yes. However, the Providence Family Court will typically leave child support open so that the custodial parent can change their decision at any time and seek child support.
The varying yardsticks create some surprising results. For example, New Jersey ranks 47th in child support payments, even though it's one of the most expensive states in which to live. Massachusetts is first, and Nevada second.
Complete the petition one of three ways: Go to , click the link under that “Start” heading. Print the petition to modify your child support order. File the petition with the Petition Room at the Family Court.
In your letter, you must identify who you are, state specifically what your change in circumstance is, and definitively request a review of your case. You will send this letter to the CSE caseworker assigned to your case in the regional office that enforces your order. You can find that information on the CSE website.
There are a few ways to file: Visit the Family Court where your court order was issued and complete a Support Petition for Modification form (also known as form 4-11). Call the Family Court where your child support order was issued and they will mail you the Support Petition for Modification form.
Work with your lawyer to persuade the court how the change will benefit the child: Prepare to demonstrate to the judge how your proposed modification to child support benefits your child. Usually, a change on its own won't suffice to justify a modification in child support.
If your circumstances change substantially or you lose your job, it is important to seek modification as soon as possible. The court cannot retroactively change the terms of child support, and any modification would only be effective as of the filing date of the modification application.
In state-by-state rankings, Massachusetts ranks highest with the most expensive child support payments, averaging $1,187 per month. Virginia mandates the least support at $402 per month.