Search Site
Menu

Child Support and Maintenance Issues Due to Loss/Reduction of Income- Covid-19

The Coronavirus crisis has resulted in millions of people losing a large portion, if not all, of their income. This negatively effects everyone in the family. If a person is required to pay child support or maintenance but can no longer do so because of loss of income, he/she needs to take action immediately by filing a motion with the court for a reduction in the support obligation.

In Wisconsin, the law provides the court cannot retroactively change child support or maintenance past the date the motion for reduction is filed and served on the other party. So, for example, the payor is laid off on April 1st. The payor is hopeful about going back to work soon and does not want to spend the money to file a motion. Now it is July 1st and still no job. So, the payor finally files a motion and has it served. Once the court hears the motion, which may be weeks to months later, the most the court can do is make a retroactive reduction in the support order back to the date the motion was filed and served. The payor will still be fully responsible for the full support obligation before July 1st even if no money was coming in.

Doing nothing will cost you more money. It is better to file a motion right away. If things turn out well, you can always dismiss your motion. But you cannot get backward relief.

If you have any questions or concerns, call or email us at the Hart Law Office. PH: 414-271-1775. Email: Eric at [email protected] or Richard at [email protected].

  • AUDIO: Richard and Eric Hart Interview 10/26/20 Attorney Arthur

  • Hart Law Office Videos
    About Hart Law Office
    Divorce FAQs

    Q: What is a divorce?

    A: A divorce is the legal termination of marriage. All states require a spouse to identify a legal reason for requesting a divorce when filing the divorce papers with the court. The reasons given when filing are referred to as the grounds for divorce.

    Read More ›
    Ebook Download

    Enter your email address in the field below and we will send you a copy of our FREE ebook.

    Reviews
    • yelp
      5.0/5.0

      Eric Hart is an experienced attorney who thinks and acts outside the box.  For those who have been falsely accused and are fearing the worst, Eric Hart has your back.  If you’re looking for a criminal defense or family law attorney, you should co...

      Read more

      Diane L.

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      I had a great experience working with Hart Law Office. Attorney, Eric Hart, was very professional, helpful, and thorough in assisting me with my sensitive matter. I highly recommend this law office for legal advice and assistance.

      Read more

      Ivana Brookins

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      I have found Richard to be fair over all with both parties in the capacity of a GAL. There is sometimes where he should not be as lenient in his recommendations, but that is just him using all his options.

      Read more

      Jennifer Holtslander

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      The Hart law firm is extremely professional and very consistent in successful results. All the attorneys at the firm have strong relationships with DA's and judges in both major SE Wisconisn counties. Would highly recommend.

      Read more

      Joey J

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      Young ambitious attorneys love it love it

      Read more

      Joe Jennings

    See all reviews
    Contact us

    Quick Contact Form