Child Support Modification Lawyers in the GTA
Life changes. Your court order should too. We help parents increase or decrease support payments when income or custody arrangements shift.
Legal Review: This modification guide was reviewed by Deepa Tailor, Senior Family Lawyer, to ensure compliance with the Family Law Rules regarding Motions to Change (2026).
When Can You Change a Support Order?
You cannot change a Court Order just because you want to. You must prove a "Material Change in Circumstances." This means a significant, long-lasting change that was not foreseen when the original order was made. Common examples include a major increase or decrease in income, a child turning 18, or a change in where the child lives (custody).
Does Your Situation Qualify?
Income Fluctuation
Involuntary job loss, disability, or a significant promotion/raise for the payor. (Note: Quitting voluntarily usually does not qualify).
The "Adult Child"
The child turns 18 or finishes their first post-secondary degree. Support does not stop automatically; you must file to terminate it.
Custody Flip
The child moves from Mom's house to Dad's house. The support flow must reverse immediately to reflect reality.
Undue Hardship
Taking on new financial obligations (like a new baby or illness) that make the current support amount impossible to pay.
What Counts vs. What Doesn't
Valid Material Change
- Company downsizing (Layoff).
- Diagnosed medical disability preventing work.
- Child drops out of school at 19.
- Payor's income increases by 20%.
NOT a Material Change
- Quitting a job to start a business.
- Remarriage (usually does not affect child support).
- Buying a new house or car.
- Minor income fluctuations (seasonal).
How to File a "Motion to Change"
Disclosure First
Before filing, we send a formal request for updated financial disclosure (Form 13) to confirm the numbers have actually changed.
The Consent Motion (Form 15C)
If both parents agree on the new math, we file a "Consent Motion to Change." The judge signs it in chambers. No court appearance needed.
The Contested Motion (Form 15)
If the other parent disagrees (e.g., they deny your income dropped), we must file a formal Motion to Change and attend a Case Conference.
Retroactive Adjustment
We ask the court to backdate the change to when the income actually dropped, often resulting in a credit or refund for overpayment.
Modification FAQs
No. If you have a court order, you usually need to file a motion to legally terminate enforcement, especially if the FRO is involved.
Related Financial Services
How is Child Support Calculated?
Learn about the Federal Child Support Guidelines and how income determines payment amounts.
Child Support Enforcement (FRO)
Collect unpaid support through the Family Responsibility Office and court enforcement.
Section 7 Special Expenses
Understand how daycare, medical, and extracurricular costs are shared between parents.
Deepa Tailor
Senior Family Lawyer
Deepa Tailor is the founder of Tailor Law. She specializes in post-judgment variations, helping clients update old court orders to reflect their current financial reality.
View Full BioPaying Too Much? Receiving Too Little? Update Your Order.
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