Need to write to the Attorney General about child support? It usually happens when you want to lower your payments. This letter explains why your financial situation has changed. Maybe you lost your job or had a big pay cut.
Writing the right letter can be tough. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We will share some letter templates.
This article gives you samples. Use these samples to make writing easier. Get the letter right and make your case stronger.
Sample Letter To The Attorney General Reducing Child Support Payment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
The Honorable [Attorney General’s Name]
Office of the Attorney General
[Address of Attorney General’s Office]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request for Review and Modification of Child Support Order – Case Number [Your Case Number]
Dear Attorney General [Attorney General’s Last Name],
I am writing to formally request a review and modification of my current child support order, case number [Your Case Number], pertaining to [Child’s Full Name], born on [Child’s Date of Birth]. The existing order requires me to pay [Current Child Support Amount] per [Frequency – e.g., month].
Since the establishment of the current order on [Date of Original Order], there has been a significant change in my circumstances that warrants a reevaluation of my child support obligation. Specifically, [Clearly and concisely explain the change in circumstances. Examples include: loss of employment, significant decrease in income, birth of another child, or a change in the child’s needs].
I believe that these documents clearly demonstrate the need for a modification of the existing child support order. I am committed to fulfilling my parental responsibilities and providing for [Child’s Name]’s well-being. I am confident that a revised order will be more equitable and reflect my current financial situation.
I respectfully request that your office review my case and schedule a hearing at your earliest convenience. I am available to provide any additional information or documentation that may be required.
Thank you for your time and consideration in this important matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To The Attorney General Reducing Child Support Payment
Subject Line: Be Direct and Unambiguous
- Craft a subject line that immediately signals the letter’s purpose. For example: “Request for Child Support Modification – [Your Name] – Case Number [Case Number]”.
- Avoid vague language. Clarity engenders expediency.
Salutation: Formal Yet Respectful
- Begin with a formal salutation: “Dear Attorney General [Attorney General’s Last Name],”
- If you know a specific attorney handling your case, address them directly: “Dear Mr./Ms. [Attorney’s Last Name],”
- Omit overly familiar greetings. Professionalism is paramount.
Introduction: State Your Purpose Succinctly
- Open with a concise statement explaining the letter’s objective. For instance: “I am writing to formally request a modification of my current child support order, case number [Case Number].”
- Briefly allude to the grounds for your request (job loss, reduced income, etc.). Avoid lengthy preambles.
Body Paragraph 1: Detail the Changed Circumstances
- Elaborate on the specific changes impacting your ability to meet the current support obligations.
- Provide concrete examples: “I was recently terminated from my employment at [Company Name] on [Date], resulting in a significant reduction in my income.”
- Quantify the change: “My current monthly income is now [Amount], a decrease of [Percentage] from my previous earnings.”
- Include dates and names to enhance the verisimilitude of your claim.
Body Paragraph 2: Provide Supporting Documentation
- Outline the documentation you are including as proof of your altered circumstances.
- Examples: “Attached you will find copies of my termination letter, unemployment benefits statement, and recent pay stubs (if applicable) as corroborating evidence.”
- Ensure all documents are legible and pertinent. Superfluous information detracts from your argument.
Proposed Solution: Suggest a Reasonable Adjustment
- Propose a specific, realistic modification to your child support payment.
- Base your proposal on your current income and expenses, adhering to state guidelines if possible.
- Example: “Based on my current income and state guidelines, I respectfully request a temporary reduction in my monthly child support payment to [Amount].”
- Show a willingness to cooperate and fulfill your parental obligations, albeit at a reduced rate.
Closing: Express Gratitude and Reiterate Your Request
- Conclude with a polite expression of gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Reiterate your request for a child support modification.
- Offer your availability for further communication or clarification.
- Use a formal closing: “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name and contact information.
Frequently Asked Questions: Reducing Child Support Payments
Navigating child support modifications can be complex. This FAQ addresses common inquiries regarding submitting a sample letter to the Attorney General to request a reduction in child support payments.
1. When should I send a letter to the Attorney General requesting a reduction in child support?
You should send a letter when there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, a substantial decrease in income, or a change in the child’s needs.
2. What information should I include in my letter?
Include your full name, case number, contact information, a clear explanation of the changed circumstances, supporting documentation (e.g., pay stubs, termination letter), and the specific amount of reduction you are requesting.
3. Is sending a letter enough to guarantee a reduction in child support?
No, sending a letter is just the first step. The Attorney General will review your request and supporting documentation. A formal modification order from the court is required for any changes to take effect.
4. What if I don’t know the exact amount of reduction to request?
You can consult with a family law attorney or your state’s child support guidelines to estimate an appropriate amount based on your current circumstances.
5. Where do I send the letter?
Send the letter to the specific office of the Attorney General that handles child support enforcement in your jurisdiction. This information can usually be found on the Attorney General’s website or by contacting their office directly.
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