In most states the parents of a minor child may agree to the amount of child support, and courts encourage the parents to do so. But the court will generally review the agreed amount of child support and determine whether it is in the best interest of the child before signing a child support order. And if the parents later agree to change the amount of or need for child support, they should return to court and get a signed order that reflects the agreed or changed amount, as only the court may change the legal obligation under a child support order.
In Louisiana (LA), parents of a minor child can come to an agreement regarding the amount of child support. However, such agreements must be reviewed and approved by the court to ensure that they serve the best interests of the child. The court will consider various factors, including the needs of the child and the parents' financial circumstances, to determine if the agreed amount is appropriate. If parents wish to modify the child support amount or the need for it at a later date, they must petition the court for a modification of the existing child support order. The court will then review the request and decide whether to approve the new arrangement. It is important to note that only a court can legally alter the obligations set forth in a child support order, and informal agreements between parents without court approval do not change the legal responsibilities.