Child Support Enforcement
Learn about child support hearings, paternity cases, modifications, court procedures, and resources available through the Sixth Judicial Circuit.
Courts Information & Resource Centers
Department of Revenue
Florida State Disbursement Unit
About the Child Support Hearing Officer Program
The Child Support Hearing Officer Program is part of the Family Law Division of the Administrative Office of the Courts for the Sixth Judicial Circuit.
After an order is entered, parties generally have ten days to file a Motion to Vacate a recommended order.
Types of Cases Heard
Child Support Hearing Officers hear several types of family law cases involving support obligations and related matters.
Child Support Enforcement Cases
When court-ordered child support is not paid, the Department of Revenue may file a Motion for Contempt. Potential consequences may include:
Paternity Cases
Paternity proceedings determine:
When paternity is disputed, genetic testing may be requested.
Modern DNA testing can determine paternity with a very high degree of accuracy.
Petitions for Support
When parents live separately, a Petition for Support may be filed to establish child support obligations.
Parents who have the ability to provide support may be required by law to contribute financially to their child’s care.
Child Support Modifications
A Petition for Modification requests a change to an existing child support order. A parent seeking modification generally must show:
How Child Support Is Calculated
Child Support Hearing Officers hear several types of family law cases involving support obligations and related matters.
Factors Considered
Additional Considerations
Example Calculation
Responsibilities After a Court Order Is Entered
If you are ordered to pay child support, you should read your court order very carefully. The order is usually quite long and contains many provisions that may affect you later. For example, you will probably be required to notify the Clerk of the Court and the Department of Revenue if you change your address. If you fail to do so, any notices of future hearings may be sent to your old address. If you are not there to receive it, you will not know about the hearing. The hearing may be conducted in your absence, and any number of things may happen. An arrest warrant may even be issued for your failure to appear.
Responsibilities
Self-Represented Litigants
If you choose to represent yourself, you must follow the same rules and procedures required of attorneys.
Responsibilities
Forms and Resources
Download required hearing forms, review filing instructions, or explore self-representation resources.