Hey folks, I’m just curious about how it works in court when it comes to splitting costs for special needs. My ex and I generally get along well, but he has mental health issues and sometimes becomes combative, withholding child support and medical costs during those times. I try to remain calm and not engage in conflict, which usually helps us eventually get back on track. However, I’m concerned about our daughter’s medical expenses if it ever comes to court. Currently, my ex pays $450 in child support, half of the health insurance, and half of the medical costs. Recently, he had a girlfriend who suggested he was paying too much, and I ended up not receiving the child support for several months. I eventually got the back payment, but it’s frustrating. I’ve had to cover several medical expenses for our daughter, including feeding therapy, dermatological care, and allergy tests—all of which were medically necessary. Now, I’m facing upcoming surgeries, and he’s somewhat skeptical about these being necessary. I have doctors willing to provide letters confirming the medical necessity, but I’m wondering if that would hold up in court. Would those letters be enough evidence that he needs to pay his share of the medical costs?
It definitely sounds like a tricky situation, and it’s good that you have documentation of everything. If you take this to court, having letters from the doctors stating that the treatments and procedures are necessary should help your case. Courts usually take medical opinions seriously.
@Mike
I hope so. I’ve been trying to keep all records of everything, especially since he has a history of being evasive about payments.
You might want to consider formalizing the arrangement about paying medical costs through the court. That way, you’re protected if he tries to withhold payment. If the court order specifies he is responsible for half of those costs, it could make it more straightforward if conflicts arise.
@Peyton
That’s a solid idea. I was hesitant about going back to court, but if it ensures he holds up his end financially, it might be worth it.
Documenting everything is key. If he’s disputing the necessity, encourage him to attend medical appointments with you. That way, he can hear the doctors firsthand and understand the situation better.
Wes said:
Documenting everything is key. If he’s disputing the necessity, encourage him to attend medical appointments with you. That way, he can hear the doctors firsthand and understand the situation better.
He actually goes to appointments, but I think he still doubts what the doctors tell us. I’m trying to be patient and explain things to him, but it’s tricky.
In court, if you can show that you’ve consistently covered these costs and have his acknowledgment that he’ll pay half, it could work in your favor. Have you thought about setting up a state child support service to keep track of everything?
@Zev
Not yet, but it’s worth looking into. It might help with the documentation and ensure he’s more accountable.
Every state has different rules on medical costs and special needs expenses. You should check what specific expenses need to be categorized as medically necessary in Utah. That could clarify what he is obligated to cover.
@Kirin
Great point. I’ll look into the state guidelines to see if there’s anything specific I need to know.