Portland, OR family law attorney Tate Justesen talks about how child support payments can be modified after a divorce. He points out that child support orders in Oregon can be modified through the Department of Justice (DOJ), specifically within the Child Support Division. This division employs a significant portion of the DOJ’s staff, with its primary focus on enforcement and modification of child support obligations.

If a parent experiences a substantial change—such as a loss of income or a significant shift in parenting time—the state allows for an administrative modification process. A parent may request a review through the Child Support Division, which then evaluates whether the circumstances justify a change in the support order.

Alternatively, some parties choose to bypass the administrative process and file directly with the Circuit Court. If a parent first proceeds administratively and disagrees with the outcome, they have the right to appeal the decision to the Circuit Court in their county. The court then reviews the matter de novo, meaning it considers the case anew and examines all of the facts independently of the administrative ruling.

This dual system provides flexibility: parents may seek relief either through the state’s administrative process or, if necessary, by turning to the courts for a full review.