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Child support

agreements

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 Wisconsin, parents of a minor child can reach an agreement on the amount of child support, and such collaboration is often encouraged. However, the court will review any agreed-upon child support arrangement to ensure that it serves the best interests of the child before it issues a formal child support order. If parents decide to modify the amount or necessity of child support at a later time, they must go back to court to obtain a new order reflecting the updated agreement. This is because only a court can legally alter the obligations set forth in a child support order. Wisconsin courts use specific guidelines based on the parents' income and other factors to determine the appropriate amount of child support, and any deviation from these guidelines must be justified and approved by the court.

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Child support

agreements

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Wisconsin State Code

Wisconsin State Code

Articles

Child support

agreements