A child support order reflects a family’s circumstances at a particular point in time. But as life changes, so can the financial realities of both parents. Whether you have experienced a job loss, a promotion, a custody adjustment, or a problem with unpaid support, it’s important to understand your rights and options under California law.
At the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers, based in Torrance, California, we help parents throughout Los Angeles County, Orange County, the South Bay, and the San Gabriel Valley navigate the process of modifying or enforcing child support orders so that both parents—and their children—are treated fairly.
When Can a Child Support Order Be Modified?
California courts allow child support orders to be modified when there has been a “material change in circumstances.” Common examples include:
- A significant increase or decrease in either parent’s income
- Job loss, layoff, or change in employment status
- Substantial changes in child custody or parenting time
- Increased childcare, education, or medical costs
- Remarriage or new dependents affecting financial obligations
Either parent can request a modification, but the court will not act automatically—you must file a formal request and provide updated financial information. The new order will replace the old one moving forward but will not usually affect payments already made.
At the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers, we help clients gather documentation, prepare modification requests, and present their cases effectively in courts across Torrance, Long Beach, Downtown Los Angeles, and Pasadena. We ensure that all financial disclosures are accurate and that judges have a complete picture before making a new determination.
Enforcing a Child Support Order
Unfortunately, not every parent fulfills their support obligations. If payments are missed or consistently late, California law offers several enforcement tools, including:
- Wage garnishment or income withholding orders
- Interception of tax refunds or unemployment benefits
- Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses
- Liens against property or bank accounts
- Contempt proceedings, which can lead to fines or even jail time in serious cases
Our firm assists both custodial and non-custodial parents in resolving support disputes through negotiation whenever possible—and through firm court action when necessary. Judges in Torrance, Compton, and Long Beach take enforcement seriously, particularly when a parent’s failure to pay affects the child’s well-being.
Why Legal Representation Matters
While online resources can provide basic forms, support modification and enforcement are complex procedures that benefit greatly from experienced legal guidance. Small mistakes in paperwork or timing can delay relief or result in unfair outcomes. Having an attorney who regularly practices in your local family courts ensures your filings are handled correctly and efficiently.
The Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers brings over 30 years of family law experience across Los Angeles and Orange Counties. We understand the nuances of how different judges approach child support issues, and we tailor our strategies accordingly to achieve the best results for our clients.
Take the Next Step
If your circumstances have changed or you are struggling with unpaid child support, don’t wait to take action. Contact the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers today to schedule a consultation. We represent clients in Torrance, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, Beverly Hills, and throughout Southern California, helping parents secure fair support orders that protect their children’s financial stability and future.