Title: Understanding South Dakota Motion to Modify or Amend Divorce Decree to Decrease Child Support: Types and Process Introduction: Child support is a crucial aspect of divorce and can experience changes over time due to various circumstances. In South Dakota, individuals have the legal right to file a Motion to Modify or Amend their Divorce Decree to decrease the amount of child support. This article will provide an in-depth description of the process, eligibility criteria, and different types of South Dakota Motion to Modify or Amend Divorce Decree to Provide for Decrease in Amount of Child Support. Keywords: South Dakota, Motion to Modify, Amend, Divorce Decree, Child Support, Decrease, Eligibility, Types I. Eligibility for Filing a Motion to Modify or Amend Divorce Decree: 1. Change in financial circumstances: Individuals seeking a decrease in child support must provide evidence of a substantial change in their finances, such as a loss of income, unemployment, or financial hardship. 2. Change in custody or visitation arrangements: Demonstrating a significant change in custody or visitation arrangements may warrant a decrease in child support obligations. II. Types of South Dakota Motion to Modify or Amend Divorce Decree to Provide for Decrease in Amount of Child Support: 1. Temporary Modification: — In cases of temporary financial hardships, such as unemployment, individuals can file for a temporary modification to reduce child support temporarily until their situation improves. — Temporary modifications are typically granted for a specific period and require the individual to resume their original child support payments afterward. 2. Permanent Modification: — Individuals can seek a permanent modification if there has been a substantial, long-term change in their financial circumstances, income, or obligations. — Examples may include job loss, disability, or significant decrease in income. — An evidentiary hearing is usually required to evaluate the petitioner's financial situation. III. Process of Filing a South Dakota Motion to Modify or Amend Divorce Decree: 1. Gather relevant documents: Collect documents supporting the substantial change in financial circumstances, such as tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and medical records if applicable. 2. Complete necessary forms: Obtain the appropriate forms required by the South Dakota court system for filing a Motion to Modify or Amend Divorce Decree. 3. Pay filing fees: Pay the necessary filing fees at the South Dakota court where the initial divorce decree was issued. 4. Serve the opposing party: Serve the other party involved in the divorce or child support case with a copy of the filed motion and court summons. 5. Attend court hearings: Attend all scheduled court hearings and provide evidence to support the requested decrease in child support. 6. Await the court's decision: The court will review all evidence, hearings, and arguments before making a decision on the modification request. Conclusion: In South Dakota, individuals experiencing a substantial change in their financial circumstances or custody/visitation arrangements have the option to file a Motion to Modify or Amend Divorce Decree to provide for a decrease in child support. By understanding the different types and following the proper legal process, individuals can seek a fair adjustment to their child support obligations. It is advisable to consult with a family law attorney to navigate the complexities of the South Dakota court system and ensure the best possible outcome.