Portland, OR family law attorney Tate Justesen talks about how child support payments can be modified after a divorce. Child support can be modified through the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ), which has a Child Support Division. This division is notable for being one of the largest within the DOJ, employing a significant number of attorneys to handle child support issues.

If an individual experiences a loss of income or if their parenting time with their child changes substantially during the course of having a minor child, they can request an administrative modification from the state. This administrative process allows for changes to be made without going through the courts. However, some individuals choose to bypass the administrative process and file directly with the Circuit Court.

Once a person receives an administrative decision regarding a child support modification from the state, they have a specified period to appeal that decision to the Circuit Court in their county. The county Circuit Court can then review the administrative decision de novo, meaning it will examine all the facts anew. If the individual believes that the state’s administrative decision regarding the modification was incorrect, they have the right to appeal and request that the court reassess the case.