Is It Time To Modify Your Child Support Order?

Last updated on April 2, 2025

Your life circumstances often change after a judge issues a child support order. To have the court modify the order, you will need the assistance of an attorney who knows how to navigate the legal process.

Since 1997, the attorneys of Nelson, Krueger & Millenbach, LLC, have been devoted to the practice of family law. We work with custodial and noncustodial parents in Milwaukee, Waukesha and the surrounding areas who find that they need to modify an existing support order. Our goal is to find positive, creative solutions to difficult family problems while avoiding contentious disputes.

Schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced family law attorneys by calling 414-939-0529 or by using our online contact form.

Frequently Asked Questions About Modifying Child Support Orders In Wisconsin

When can you modify a support order in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, you must show a substantial change of circumstances, to request a modification. Some examples of situations in which you might modify child support include:

• A parent lost their job.
• A parent had a significant salary increase or decrease; this would typically be a shift of $5,000 or more annually.
• There was a change in the child’s financial needs.
• There was a change in your custody arrangement.
• The child has turned 18 or graduated from high school.
• The child has developed needs that result in increased health care or education costs.
• One or both parents is incarcerated.
• A parent has become disabled.

In addition, the statutes provide that if 33 months have passed, there is a presumption that there has been a substantial change in circumstances.  If your circumstances have changed, do not sit idly by. Contact a reputable family law attorney to discuss your options.

Can you modify child support without going to court?

In some situations, you can negotiate with your child’s other parent to reach a compromise on a new child support arrangement without ever going to court. If your co-parent agrees to a modification, you can resolve the matter in as little as two to three weeks. Conversely, a hearing can take several months.

Is a child support modification retroactive?

Child support modifications are proactive, not retroactive. The court is prohibited from modifying a child support order prior to the filing, and service, of a motion requesting a change. Therefore, it is important to seek the advice of an attorney, and file a motion if appropriate, as soon as you learn of a potential change in circumstances.

Can child support be modified if the custodial parent remarries?

Remarriage usually does not warrant a change in support. The custodial parent’s spouse does not have an obligation to provide financial support to their stepchild. The noncustodial parent, however, continues to have an obligation to provide child support. This is true even if the custodial parent’s financial situation improves due to their new marriage.

How can I win a child support modification hearing?

Having a family law attorney is important to ensure that you present your side persuasively to the court. You will need every bit of evidence you can find of a significant change of circumstances if you hope to win your hearing.

Ask Us About Getting A Child Support Order Modification

We understand that nothing is more important to you than providing for your child’s needs. When you need to modify a child support order, our experienced team will help. Reach out to us to schedule an initial consultation by calling 414-939-0529 or by using our online contact form.