As a divorced parent, you have a lot on your plate. Between keeping track of parenting time and fulfilling the terms of an existing child support order, it can be difficult to feel on top of this lengthy to-do list every month. However, when a significant life change occurs, such as the remarriage of you or your ex-spouse to someone new, this event can create additional challenges and confusion. Addressing child support after remarriage is important, whether you are the parent responsible for making monthly payments or the recipient of child support payments. As soon as questions arise regarding remarriage and child support issues, you can enlist the guidance of a trusted and experienced Camas family law attorney to help you understand your legal rights and options. Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which remarriage can affect an existing child support order in Washington state.
Does Remarriage Affect Child Support in Washington State?
When your ex-spouse remarries, you may wonder how this event could affect their child support obligations. If you are the obligor, your remarriage could also affect your child support obligations in the future. It’s important to understand that Washington laws state that a new spouse’s income cannot be included in the child support calculations. This is specifically excluded under RCW 26.19.071(4)(a). It is important to note the statute requires both parents to disclose all income and resources in their household for the Court to consider. For purposes of the basic support obligation (absent a deviation) only the income of the parents shall be at issue. If your ex and new spouse have a child together, the court may allow your ex to seek a modification to the existing order so that their income can benefit the needs of all their children. It is important to note that all parties are required to
How Does Remarriage Affect Child Support in Washington State?
Child support and remarriage can affect one another in various ways. For instance, the custodial parent who relies on monthly support from their ex may remarry, and this event could prompt the child’s other parent to seek a modification request in order to make smaller payments. The petitioner can justify this modification request because the remarriage provides additional financial security and support to the custodial parent, reducing the need for as much monthly child support. Either party can petition the court for a child support modification; the documents and filing instructions can be located here. Although you can seek a child support modification without legal representation, enlisting the guidance and support of a caring and experienced Camas family law attorney can provide you with the reassurance and confidence you need during this somewhat stressful time.
Learn More About Child Support Modifications Today
Whether you are tying the knot with someone new or your ex-spouse has just remarried, you will need to explore how this new marriage will affect your existing parenting plan and child support order. Every situation is different, so it’s worth seeking out the personalized legal support you deserve to ensure that you understand your legal rights, options, and obligations. With a knowledgeable Camas child support attorney by your side, you can make more informed decisions with greater certainty and confidence.
When it comes to issues affecting you and your family, you deserve exceptional and reliable legal advocacy that’s customized to address your specific needs. Call The Vern McCray Law Firm, PLLC, today at (360) 834-6262 to get started with a dedicated and experienced Camas and Vancouver family law attorney.
