How Long Do Child Support Modifications Take

by Mindy
(Kansas City, MO, USA)

I am the custodial parent and my ex-husband was originally ordered to pay $798/month and we came to an agreement of paying $500/month for our two children. Fast forward to the present, and now he wants to modify. We both have one other child. The paperwork came back that he is now supposed to pay $627/month. He is now stating that he is wanting to give up his parental rights. I have emails and he also told my children he wasn't going to be seeing the again after their last visit with him. He only had them 2 nights/month per his choice. I filed for the garnishment of his wages in March 2009 after many years of non-payment. He was over $15,000 behind in support. Now he states that since he wants to give up his rights he will no longer have to pay child support. Can he actually do this? He stated that he will appeal the state's decision. I have a feeling this could drag on forever. He also stated that when he filed the modification, the stated didn't take into account his child, only mine. I was told by the modification worker that since he filed, his child doesn't count. Is this true? Not to mention the fact that he has not paid a single dime for our kids activities, tutoring, or medical expenses that was clearly stated in our divorce decree for him to do so. I'm so frustrated with the whole situation. It has left my children who are 8 and 11, completely crushed and confused. Do I have the right since he stated he didn't want them, to keep them from him? Please help with this. Thank you!