Child support generally may be changed or modified by filing a motion to modify and demonstrating to the court that the circumstances of the child or one or both parents have materially and substantially changed, or that some period of time (3 years, for example) has passed since the court’s last child support order. And if there has been a material and substantial change in the custody of the child—if, for example, the noncustodial parent who was paying child support has become the custodial parent—the court may change or eliminate the child support obligation based on the change in the custody arrangement.

In Rhode Island, child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances for the child or either parent, or after a certain period, such as three years, has elapsed since the last order. To initiate a modification, a motion must be filed with the court. The court will then evaluate if the changes are material and substantial enough to warrant an adjustment in the child support amount. This could include changes in income, employment, or the needs of the child. Additionally, if there is a change in the child's custody arrangement, such as when the noncustodial parent becomes the custodial parent, the court may alter or terminate the child support obligation to reflect the new custody situation. The process is governed by Rhode Island state statutes and family court procedures, and it is advisable to consult with an attorney to navigate the legal requirements and to ensure that the motion to modify child support is presented effectively to the court.