Modifications of Child Support and Alimony in Light of Coronavirus

The current health and humanitarian crisis is affecting us all in countless ways.  We hope that you, your families and friends are all safe and healthy. We wake up each day to new and different crises and questions in addition to the ones from the day before. With businesses slowing and unemployment rates rising, those who receive, and those who pay, child support and/or alimony have their own unique questions they need answered. All court orders remain in effect until such time as a new court order enters. Connecticut Law provides for a party to file for a modification of child support based on a substantial change of circumstances or if the child support obligation is fifteen percent or more than the child support amount set forth in the current Guidelines. Modifications of alimony require a substantial change in circumstances - Connecticut does not have alimony guidelines.  That said, it is important to understand the terms and conditions of your court orders which may place restrictions or limitations on seeking a modification in your matter. The filing and service of a motion for modification is important as it sets a date from which a modified support order can be made retroactive.  It is not clear yet how the Connecticut courts will deal with the retroactivity of the applications filed once courts are back in session. The Governor has restricted matters in the Superior Courts to only essential matters and while child support and/or alimony is essential to your family, these matters do not fall within the Governor’s current definition.  At this time motions for modification can be filed with the court.

Please feel free to contact us at 860-232-4471 for more information regarding the above.