
Quoting
philistine
The current state where jurisdiction resides is PA. This also may involve the state of Alabama.
Background information:
I recently became unemployed. I voluntarily quit my job in PA to be with my wife in another state. I have been confirmed for UC benefits due to compelling and necessitous reasons. I recently had a child support hearing for a modification request. The hearing officer approved of a reduction and based my income from the UC benefits. I now reside in Alabama. My ex-wife lives in TN.
From my understanding, domestic relations in PA will track any progress of my employment status. While on the job hunt, I have found it extremely difficult to find suitable employment based on my previous work experience. I did engineering work at different levels (technical lvl and engineering lvl). I was progressing towards my engineering degree and my previous company allowed me to work as an associate engineer at the pay rate of an entry level engineer. The area I reside now has many engineering opportunities however, a degree is required - no exceptions! With no luck finding work, I decided to transfer to the local university and attend full-time. Everything transferred and I am eligible for internships due to an excellent standing and senior level. While I had no luck finding full-time work as an engineer, I did receive a promising interview with a really good employer for a summer internship.
Here's the question:
Since my circumstances are leaning towards degree completion for full-time employment, will my child support obligations be reduced during this time? Is a paying father entitled to a child support reduction for educational purposes? Should I petition to move jurisdiction to AL?
My thoughts:
It would be most difficult to make support payments while attending college full-time. If I am working towards a degree that will provide full-time employment, the rewards will be transferred to the children in the form of medical, dental, and monetary support payments. I am worried that domestic relations will not consider the circumstances involved and impute me at an earning capacity based on my previous employment. I am trying to do the responsible thing. Just as a reminder, the modification was approved for a reduction based on UC benefits. I am looking down the road when this is monitored and the circumstance changes from being unemployed and hunting for work to full-time college student - no income except summer work.
Thanks!