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 Massachusetts, parents of a minor child can come to an agreement regarding the amount of child support. The state encourages parents to work together to determine a suitable amount that will support the child's needs. However, any agreement made by the parents must be reviewed and approved by the court to ensure that it meets the child's best interests. The court will consider the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines to determine if the agreed-upon amount is appropriate. If parents wish to modify the child support amount or the need for it changes, they must not rely on an informal agreement. Instead, they must petition the court for a modification of the existing child support order. The court will then review the circumstances and decide whether to approve the new arrangement. It is only through a court order that any changes to the legal obligation of child support can be officially recognized and enforced.