Can child support be solved through mediation?

[Anonymous]

Would a mediator only help with child custody or would they also help with child support? Is it best to just start a case with child suppport service division?

[Anonymous]

What is the issue? Are you trying to come to a support agreement, or enforcement an existing support order/agreement?

[Anonymous]

We tweaked ours twice through modification because my ex was keeping himself unemployed or underemployed. We negotiated that he'd pay less so he would pay something.

[Anonymous]

Well normally it's a formula, so I'm not sure what there is to "resolve" - it would follow the custody agreement.

[Anonymous]

Yes, child support can be handled in mediation. But, if you are the receiving parent you need to know how much you would get if a judge ordered it, and don't deviate too much because that's money that your children are entitled to.

Also make sure you find out the steps to make it enforceable through the courts if the other parent stops paying. Some mediators will help with those steps - make sure yours will.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Well normally it's a formula, so I'm not sure what there is to "resolve" - it would follow the custody agreement.

If it goes to trial the judge will use a formula. However, judges prefer if the parties settle before trial. And often adjustments are made. I just went through this, and while we ended up at a number very close to what the formula would have determined, a few adjustments were made (both in his favor and mine).

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:What is the issue? Are you trying to come to a support agreement, or enforcement an existing support order/agreement?

Coming to a support agreement.