Q: Is it possible for me to file for modification of child support on my own without a lawyer in Florida?
I got divorced in 2019 in Florida. When we calculated child support I had zero overnights with my two children. I now have them about 1/3 of overnights. I also make more money than I did when I got divorced. I can't afford to pay a lawyer to help me with the modification. Our divorce was very contentious which continues to this day. I need to know if I can file for a modification of child support on my own and what issues I might run into if I do (such as if she doesn't want to cooperate).
A: There is no requirement for you to have a lawyer to file a modification. You will be expected to follow all of the rules that apply. If your situation continues to be contentious then expect it to be that way for the modification as well. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.
Mr Eric Klein agrees with this answer
A: There is nothing a lawyer does that you cannot do for yourself; therefore, you may represent yourself in court. There are forms you can purchase at the courthouse or online. You may wish to also consider Googling form preparers who can assist you with filling out the forms, but they cannot provide you with legal advice or answer legal questions. With that said, your situation is a bit more complex than you may think. This is not just an issue of child support, you will also have to file a Petition to Modify Timesharing to reflect what is actually being done rather than what was agreed to in 2019. Good luck!
A: There is nothing a lawyer does that you cannot do for yourself; therefore, you may represent yourself in court. There are forms you can purchase at the courthouse or online. You may wish to also consider Googling form preparers who can assist you with filling out the forms, but they cannot provide you with legal advice or answer legal questions. With that said, your situation is a bit more complex than you may think. This is not just an issue of child support, you will also have to file a Petition to Modify Timesharing to reflect what is actually being done rather than what was agreed to in 2019. Good luck!
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