Child Support in Michigan

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support in Michigan

What are some special circumstances involving multiple children that can be important factors affecting child support in Michigan?

Prior or subsequent-born children outside of the relationship in question, the quantity of children subject to the child support order in question, and the quantity of children outside of the relationship will have a bearing on determination of child support.

How can I be sure that the income of both parties is accurately established when determining child support in Michigan? How can I know they are not misrepresenting their income?

People often tend to lie or make mistakes when reporting their income for child support purposes, which unfortunately harms the children by lowering the child support amounts in some cases. Consequently, you may need to subpoena the employer to determine the actual income. We are prepared to help you take steps to seek fair and appropriate support for your children.

What can I do if I believe I am being forced to pay child support in Michigan for a child that is not mine?

In Michigan, there is the Revocation of Paternity Act (ROPA), which has different standards for whether the child was born during your marriage or an affidavit was signed mistakenly or fraudulently. You would need to show 1) the child is biologically not yours, 2) how this error happened — whether it was a lie or a mistake, and 3) what would be in the child’s interests. There is a statute of limitations if the child’s age is 3 years or older. The matter is further complicated by the need to identify and prove a particular other man is the biological father, bringing him to court. That man would still need to be willing to step up and take on the role and responsibilities with an agreement.

What happens to child support or alimony payments in Michigan and Indiana if a spouse remarries or experiences a great gain in income — or when a spouse loses a job or experiences financial trouble either due to their own mistakes or due to no fault of their own?

In Michigan and Indiana, an income increase or a decrease of 20% is required for a modification to child support. A change of less than 20% is not considered significant enough for a modification. Depending on the details of your situation, there are steps we can take towards proving a 20% change in the case of a significant income gain, a lost job, or financial trouble.