What are the Best Tips for Using the Child Support System?

There are several things a person can do to make using the child support system easier and more efficient. For example, keeping accurate records, showing up on time for court and appointments, and being prepared with necessary information and documentation may help. An individual may also find that staying calm at appointments and court proceedings may prove beneficial as well. Additionally, seeking the services of a family law attorney may prove beneficial if child support laws and procedures are confusing, help is needed for preparing a case, or a person believes he is being treated unfairly.

One of the best tips for using the child support system is to show up for all appointments and court dates. If a person has to miss a scheduled appointment, it is usually best to let the child support office know ahead of time and reschedule. If an individual fails to show up without notice, this may delay things in his case. Failing to show up for a court date, on the other hand, may result in serious consequences. For example, the opposing party may win because of default.

Keeping accurate records may help improve the outcome of a child support case. When an individual is using the child support system, he is unlikely to prove his circumstances, what he has paid, or what he has received based solely on verbal accounts. Maintaining up-to-date records and presenting them at child support appointments and court dates may improve an individual's chances of winning his case or at least securing a fair outcome.

It is also important to show up prepared for court dates and appointments when using the child support system. This means arriving with copies of all the documents that have been requested or are typically required. For example, an individual may need proof of his income and expenses. He may also have to provide information about where he lives, his occupation, any previous child support orders, current custody orders, and circumstances that affect his ability to pay or increase his need for child support help.

An individual may also find it beneficial to remain calm when he is using the child support system. While it is normal to feel anxious, and sometimes even angry, when things do not go well with a child support case, behaving in an angry or out-of-control manner is unlikely to produce satisfactory results. If a person appears to be out of control or dangerous, he may be escorted from the court room or child support office.

Often, it is possible to proceed through a child support case without a lawyer, as child support laws are often straightforward. Sometimes, however, seeking the services of a child support lawyer is particularly beneficial. For example, an individual may seek an attorney's help if his case is complex or he finds the applicable laws and procedures confusing. He may also need help with preparing forms or documents in some cases. Additionally, a person may need a lawyer's help if he feels he has been treated unfairly.