In Missouri dissolution of marriage cases (divorces) and other legal proceedings involving child custody, such as actions for paternity or motions to modify current judgments, it is common for a court to order one parent to pay the other parent a monthly amount for child support. We all want to care for our own children, and this includes supporting them financially. While child support is often viewed with a negative connotation, it is actually a good way to stay involved i

a parent does have the option to petition the court to modify the original judgment of dissolution or child custody by filing a motion to modify.

Traditionally, during the 1950’s through the 1980's when divorce became more common, and for a variety of reasons, courts favored mothers when it came to child custody and child support because during this time period most fathers worked and supported the family while the mother stayed at home and raised the children. Because society often changes faster than state legislatures and court opinions, more recently men who have desired to be a bigger part of their children’s live

new children cannot be used as a “sword” to reduce the amount of previously ordered child support.

The consequences of not paying child support can be severe in Missouri