My ex-wife filed a petition for child support last December, and our hearing is set for January 3rd. I’ve been paying her $800 for our two kids since our divorce, even though the New York guidelines suggest around $650. I opted to pay more because I wanted to be a good father. Now, I’m living in a country that doesn’t have international child support agreements with the U.S., and I’m struggling with the $800 due to various financial issues, including exchange rates. My ex is demanding $1000 from now on or she’ll go to court. I really wanted to settle things between us, so I borrowed money to give her the $1000 last month. She wrote a withdrawal of petition document, which I have proof of, but she’s now saying she won’t attend the virtual hearing because she’s on vacation. Should I still attend? Can I ask to reduce my child support since I’m working minimum wage in this new country? Any advice would be appreciated.
Always go to the hearing. You don’t want to miss it just because she’s not showing up.
Yeah, definitely attend. If she doesn’t show, you can ask for a dismissal. But be prepared for any surprises.
Isle said:
Yeah, definitely attend. If she doesn’t show, you can ask for a dismissal. But be prepared for any surprises.
Exactly. You should explain your situation to the judge. They want to see that you care about your kids, even from abroad.
Always attend court. If she’s not there, you could get a dismissal. Just make sure you’re respectful and presentable.
Piper said:
Always attend court. If she’s not there, you could get a dismissal. Just make sure you’re respectful and presentable.
For sure, never skip a court date. Always better to be safe than sorry.
It sounds like you want to reduce your payment, but $800 is already low. Think about what your kids actually need.
But he’s trying his best. Living in another country makes it tough, but it shows he cares.
The court will look at your income. Just because you moved doesn’t mean your kids should suffer. You need to attend to advocate for yourself.
Ellen said:
The court will look at your income. Just because you moved doesn’t mean your kids should suffer. You need to attend to advocate for yourself.
Exactly, the court will decide based on your current situation.
You definitely need to go. If she’s not there, you can ask for a dismissal request, but don’t take that chance.
Thorn said:
You definitely need to go. If she’s not there, you can ask for a dismissal request, but don’t take that chance.
Right, always attend. If you don’t, it could have consequences down the line.
Thorn said:
You definitely need to go. If she’s not there, you can ask for a dismissal request, but don’t take that chance.
I didn’t get your last comment about attending. Are you saying I shouldn’t?
@Tom
Oh, sorry for the confusion. I meant never skip a hearing. Always show up.