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 New Mexico, similar to many states, parents of a minor child are encouraged to reach an agreement on the amount of child support. 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. New Mexico uses specific guidelines to calculate child support, considering factors such as the income of both parents and the needs of the child. 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 proposed changes to determine if they are justified and in the best interest of the child before issuing a new order. It is important to note that any informal agreement between parents that is not court-approved does not change the legal child support obligations.