Requesting a child support order. This video will show you how to request a child support order from the Probate and Family Court.
When two parents don't live together anymore, one parent may pay child support to help with the child's financial needs.
Child support is sent to the parent who lives with the child most of the time, or the custodial parent.
The other parent, or the non-custodial parent, usually pays child support to the custodial parent.
You can file for a child support order online, by mail, or in person.
If the parents are currently married and you are filing for separate support or divorce involving child support, file in the county where you last lived together if you or your spouse still lives there. If both of you have moved, file in the county where either you or your spouse lives.
If you are not married to the other parent, file in the county where the child lives.
Once you file your paperwork, the court will give you a summons form, which you need to have served to the other parent by a sheriff or constable to explain what you have filed.
You will receive a return of service document from the sheriff or constable that confirms the delivery.
You must file the return of service with the same court as soon as possible, or the court cannot hear your case. Once this return of service is filed, the court will review your documents and issue a court date, which will be mailed to you. When you go to court, you may be able to file a motion for temporary orders if you need child support right away. Once you file this motion, you will need to hand deliver or mail a copy to the other parent. You should complete your financial statements and child support guidelines before your court hearing.
A judge decides the amount of child support based on both parents "Child Support Guidelines" worksheets and finances. The judge may assign an amount that differs from the guidelines.
The judge may order the parents to complete child support payments on their own. Alternatively, the judge may order the Department of Revenue (DOR) to automatically take payments from the non-custodial parent's wages and send them to the custodial parent.
For more information about requesting child support, visit mass.gov/how-to/get-a-child-support-order.
If you have any questions, contact your court's Registry in-person or online at mass.gov/info-details/remotevirtual-court-services#probate--family-court-virtual-registries.
You can also reach out to your Probate & Family Court using the contact info on mass.gov/courthouse-locator.