Q: I pay child support on time every week. But, the mother is always asking for more money. Do I have to give it to her ?
We have joint residential custody. At the time of our hearing, about 10 years ago, I was making more money. Now, she makes more and has her own business. I still pay child support and go half with her on everything else. Camp, clothes, birthday’s, I pay the medical bill, etc. when, my kids are with me, she doesn’t give me any money to help and she never has. She’s constantly throwing up in my face, that she makes enough, to not need my money. But, she takes it any way. She doesn’t help me at all financially when they’re with me. I don’t expect her to. But, the fact that she uses them, to try to get more money from me, is becoming strenuous. All my money goes to my kids(2). While she blows through money like water. Vacations, clothes, shoes, etc(for her self). She claim them on her taxes every year. Meanwhile, I’m at every game, practice, teachers meeting, picking them up from school, report card night etc.
A: Unless and until she obtains a new Court Order, you are not obligated to pay her more. Child support has nothing to do with what type of parent you are. If you believe you are paying too much now, based on your current income, you should retain an experienced matrimonial attorney to represent you and file a motion based on changed circumstances.
A: Thank you for your question. To answer your question the answer is no. You don’t have to give her more money than the child support unless your agreement with her addresses equal contribution for extracurricular activities and other expenses such as medical expenses. I recommend for you to meet with a family attorney to review the orders and agreements in place and perhaps you take the position the position that you are not giving her more money and let her take you to court. She may not want to do that because if she is making more money child support will be reduced and you can use this opportunity to request claiming one child. To explore your options better you need to consult with an attorney. Best of luck.
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