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Navigating the complexities of modifying an order of support in New York's Family Court can be a challenging process, but understanding the specifics of Form 4-11 is a good starting point. This form is used specifically for petitions for modification of an order of support, allowing individuals or agencies assigned on behalf of an individual (assignor), to request changes to an existing support arrangement. The reasons for seeking modification can vary from a substantial change in circumstances to a significant change in either party's gross income. Form 4-11 also caters to cases where the original or modified support order was entered after October 13, 2010, and outlines conditions under which a cost of living adjustment may be applied. Additionally, it asks for detailed information about the child(ren) affected, including names, addresses, and dates of birth, and whether the petitioner is applying for child support services. Importantly, the form requires disclosure of any prior applications for similar relief and instructs petitioners on how to maintain the efficacy of their support order in light of address changes. Through this form, the petitioner formally requests the Family Court to modify the existing support order based on the provided justifications, emphasizing the court's role in ensuring fairness and adequacy of support arrangements in response to evolving circumstances.

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F.C.A. §§ 440, 442-447, 449, 451, 461

Form 4-11

466, 467, S.S.L. § 111-g

 

(Support-Petition for

[NOTE: Personal Information Form 4-5/5-1d,

Modification)

containing social security numbers of parties and

10/2016

dependents, must be filed with this Petition]

 

FAMILY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

 

COUNTY OF

 

 

....................................................................................

 

In the Matter of a Proceeding for Support

 

Under Article 4 of the Family Court Act

Docket No.

(Commissioner of Social Services, Assignee,

 

on behalf of

, Assignor)

PETITION FOR

 

 

MODIFICATION OF AN ORDER

 

 

OF SUPPORT MADE BY

 

Petitioner,

FAMILY COURT

 

 

ANOTHER COURT

(Assignor)

-against-

Respondent.

.......................................................................................

TO THE FAMILY COURT:

The undersigned Petitioner respectfully shows that:

1.a. I am [check box]: □ an individual and am related to the child(ren) as follows [specify]:

and I reside at [specify]:1

□ assignee agency, which has its place of business at [specify]:

b. Respondent resides at [specify]:2

.

2.a. I was the □ petitioner □ respondent in an action instituted in the

□ Supreme Court of the State of New York, [specify county]:

County

□ Other Court [specify other court]:

Court of

 

b. The action was named [specify]:

,

Index/Docket No. [specify]:

Respondent was □ petitioner □ respondent in the action.

1Unless the Court has ordered the address to be confidential on the ground that disclosure would pose an

unreasonable health or safety risk. SEE Family Court Act §154-b; Form 21 (available at www.nycourts.gov).

2 Unless the Court has ordered the address to be confidential on the ground that disclosure would pose an unreasonable health or safety risk. SEE Family Court Act §154-b; Form 21 (available at www.nycourts.gov).

 

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3. a. A judgment order, dated

, was entered in the action directing the

□ Respondent □ Petitioner to [specify terms]:

.

A true copy of the □ judgment □ order is attached and made a part of this Petition.

b. An order of support dated

, was entered directing the □ Respondent

Petitioner to [specify terms]:

.

A true copy of the □ judgment order is attached and made a part of this Petition.

4. The names, addresses and dates of birth of all children affected by this order are:

CHILD’S NAME

ADDRESS3

DATE OF BIRTH

5. a. Under the terms of the □ judgment □ order, the □ Supreme Court □ Other Court

[specify]:has not retained exclusive jurisdiction to modify the □ judgment □ order. b. [Check if applicable]: □ The other Court is a court of competent jurisdiction outside the

State of New York.

6.(Upon information and belief) I have standing to seek a modification of child support because, since the entry of the □ judgment □ order,

[check applicable box]:

□ there has been a substantial change of circumstances in that [specify]:4

3Unless the Court has ordered the address to be confidential on the ground that disclosure would pose an

unreasonable health or safety risk. SEE Family Court Act §154-b; Form 21 (available at www.nycourts.gov).

4 If incarceration is the basis for alleging substantial change in circumstances, so state and indicate whether or not the incarceration resulted from a charge and/or conviction for nonpayment of child support or an offense against the custodial parent or child who is the subject of the child support order. SEE Family Court Act §451(2)(a); Domestic Relations Law §236B(9)(b)(2)(i).

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Unless the parties have specifically agreed otherwise in a validly executed agreement or stipulation, three years have passed since the order was entered, last modified or adjusted. [NOTE: This ground only applies to original or modified support orders entered on or after October 13, 2010].

Unless the parties have specifically agreed otherwise in a validly executed agreement or stipulation, there has been a change in either party’s gross income by fifteen percent or more since the order was entered, last modified or adjusted. [NOTE: This ground only applies to original or modified support orders entered on or after October 13,

2010]. The basis for this allegation is as follows [specify]:

7.The □ judgment order should be modified as follows [specify]:

.

8.[Delete if inapplicable]: I did not make an application earlier for relief from the judgment

□order directing payment prior to the accrual of arrears because (s)[specify reason(s)]:

9.[Applicable to individual petitioners; if agency, skip to ¶10]: check a box only if applicable]: I am hereby applying for child support services from the Support Collection Unit (the IV-D

program pursuant to Title 6-A of the Social Services Law) through the filing of this Petition, unless:

□ I have already applied for child support services from the Support Collection Unit (the IV-D

program pursuant to Title 6-A of the Social Services Law)

□ I do not need to apply now because I have continued to receive child support services after

the public assistance or care case, or foster care case, for my family has closed.

I do not wish to apply for child support services.

I am not eligible to apply for child support services because I am petitioning for spousal

support only.

10.No previous application has been made to any judge or court, including a Native American tribunal, or is presently pending before any judge or court, for the relief requested in this petition (except

WHEREFORE, I respectfully request that the □judgment □ order of the □ Supreme

Court □ Other Court [specify]:

, dated

, be modified as set forth above

and for such other relief as the Court may deem just and proper.

 

NOTE: (1) COURT ORDER OF SUPPORT RESULTING FROM A PROCEEDING COMMENCED BY THIS APPLICATION (PETITION) SHALL BE ADJUSTED BY THE APPLICATION OF A COST OF LIVING ADJUSTMENT AT THE DIRECTION OF THE SUPPORT COLLECTION UNIT NO EARLIER THAN TWENTY-FOUR MONTHS AFTER SUCH ORDER IS ISSUED, LAST MODIFIED OR LAST ADJUSTED, UPON THE REQUEST OF ANY PARTY TO THE ORDER OR PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (2) BELOW. SUCH COST OF

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LIVING ADJUSTMENT SHALL BE ON NOTICE TO BOTH PARTIES WHO, IF THEY OBJECT TO THE COST OF LIVING ADJUSTMENT, SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO BE HEARD BY THE COURT AND TO PRESENT EVIDENCE WHICH THE COURT WILL CONSIDER IN ADJUSTING THE CHILD SUPPORT ORDER IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION FOUR HUNDRED THIRTEEN OF THE FAMILY COURT ACT, KNOWN AS THE CHILD SUPPORT STANDARDS ACT.

(2)A PARTY SEEKING SUPPORT FOR ANY CHILD(REN) RECEIVING FAMILY ASSISTANCE SHALL HAVE A CHILD SUPPORT ORDER REVIEWED AND ADJUSTED AT THE DIRECTION OF THE SUPPORT COLLECTION UNIT NO EARLIER THAN TWENTY-FOUR MONTHS AFTER SUCH ORDER IS ISSUED, LAST MODIFIED OR LAST ADJUSTED BY THE SUPPORT COLLECTION UNIT, WITHOUT FURTHER APPLICATION BY ANY PARTY. ALL PARTIES WILL RECEIVE A COPY OF THE ADJUSTED ORDER.

(3)WHERE ANY PARTY FAILS TO PROVIDE, AND UPDATE UPON ANY

CHANGE, THE SUPPORT COLLECTION UNIT WITH A CURRENT ADDRESS, AS REQUIRED BY SECTION FOUR HUNDRED FORTY-THREE OF THE FAMILY COURT ACT, TO WHICH AN ADJUSTED ORDER CAN BE SENT, THE SUPPORT OBLIGATION AMOUNT CONTAINED THEREIN SHALL BECOME DUE AND OWING ON THE DATE THE FIRST PAYMENT IS DUE UNDER THE TERMS OF THE ORDER OF SUPPORT WHICH WAS REVIEWED AND ADJUSTED OCCURRING ON OR AFTER THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE ADJUSTED ORDER, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER OR NOT THE PARTY HAS RECEIVED A COPY OF THE ADJUSTED ORDER.

___________________________________

Dated:Petitioner

___________________________________

Print or type name

___________________________________

Signature of Attorney, if any

___________________________________

Attorney’s Name (Print or Type)

___________________________________

___________________________________

Attorney’s Address and Telephone Number

Document Attributes

Fact Name Description
Governing Laws F.C.A. §§ 440, 442-447, 449, 451, 461, 466, 467, S.S.L. § 111-g
Form Type Support-Petition for Modification
Form Number 4-11
Associated Forms Personal Information Form 4-5/5-1d
Release Date October 2016
Purpose To seek modification of an existing order of support, based on circumstances such as a substantial change in circumstances, or a change in either party’s gross income by fifteen percent or more.
Applicable Courts FAMILY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK or another court that issued the original order of support.

How to Fill Out 4 11

Filling out the Form 4-11 requires attention to detail and accurate information about the parties involved in a support modification request. It's designed for individuals seeking to modify an existing support order, whether that's for child support, spousal support, or both. With clear steps, this seemingly daunting task can be made straightforward. Before starting, ensure you have all relevant documents, including the current support order, financial documents, and any other pertinent legal paperwork. The process works best when approached methodically.

  1. Begin by entering the name of the county in the space provided at the top of the form.
  2. In the section titled "In the Matter of a Proceeding for Support Under Article 4 of the Family Court Act," list the details of the petitioner and respondent as instructed. Check the appropriate box to indicate if the petitioner is filling as an individual or as an assignee agency.
  3. Provide your relationship to the child(ren) involved, if applicable, and your residential or business address. Remember, the court may keep this address confidential if disclosing it poses a health or safety risk.
  4. List the respondent's address, following the same confidentiality considerations.
  5. Indicate whether you were the petitioner or respondent in the original action and specify the court in which the action was initiated, including any pertinent case or docket numbers.
  6. State the date of the judgment or order that is being requested for modification and outline its terms. Attach a true copy of the judgment or order to the petition.
  7. Detail the names, addresses, and dates of birth of all children affected by the order.
  8. Explain why you believe you have the standing to request a modification of the child support order. This could be due to a substantial change in circumstances, a significant change in either party's gross income, or the passage of three years since the order was entered, modified, or adjusted.
  9. Specify how the judgment or order should be modified.
  10. If applicable, share why you didn't apply for relief from the judgment or order before arrears accumulated.
  11. If you are an individual petitioner (not an agency), indicate whether you are applying for child support services through this petition. Choose the statement that applies to your situation regarding the Support Collection Unit.
  12. Confirm that no previous application for the requested relief is pending before any judge or court, including Native American tribunals. If there is an exception, note it accordingly.
  13. End with a formal request for the court to modify the judgment or order as detailed above and any other relief deemed just and proper. Date and sign the petition.
  14. Fill out your contact information, including an address and telephone number. If an attorney is representing you, ensure their signature and contact information are also provided.

Completing Form 4-11 is a significant step towards modifying a support order. After submission, the court will review your petition and schedule a hearing. You'll be notified of the date and time of this hearing, at which you'll have the opportunity to present your case and any evidence supporting your request for modification. It's advisable to prepare thoroughly and consider seeking legal guidance to navigate the process effectively.

More About 4 11

  1. What is a Form 4-11 and when is it used?

    Form 4-11, also known as the Support-Petition for Modification, is a legal document filed in the Family Court of the State of New York. This form is used when an individual wishes to request a modification to an existing order of support. The need for modification may arise due to changes in circumstances, such as financial shifts, changes in custody, or other significant life events affecting the ability to pay or the needs of the child(ren) concerned.

  2. Who can file Form 4-11?

    Either party involved in the original support order, whether the petitioner or the respondent, can file Form 4-11. This includes individuals directly related to the child(ren), such as parents, or agencies that have been assigned the rights to the support payments. The form requires the filer to identify their relationship to the child(ren) and provide evidence of the original support order alongside the petition for modification.

  3. What circumstances justify filing a Form 4-11?

    Certain conditions warrant the filing of a Form 4-11, including but not limited to:

    • A substantial change of circumstances, such as a significant increase or decrease in the income of either party or changes in the needs of the child(ren).
    • If three years have passed since the order was entered, last modified, or adjusted.
    • A change in either party's gross income by fifteen percent or more since the last order was entered, modified, or adjusted.

    It's important to note that specific criteria like incarceration due to nonpayment of child support or offenses against the custodial parent or child can also be grounds for modification.

  4. What documents are needed alongside Form 4-11?

    When filing a Form 4-11, it's necessary to attach a true copy of the existing judgment or order of support that you are seeking to modify. Additionally, financial documents and other evidence supporting the change in circumstances or income may be required to substantiate the petition for modification.

  5. How does the court process the Form 4-11 petition?

    Once filed, the Family Court reviews the petition and the evidence presented to determine if a modification of the support order is warranted. This might involve hearings where both parties can present their case. If the court finds the petition valid, it will issue a modified order of support reflecting the new terms based on the circumstances and evidence provided.

  6. Is it possible to apply for child support services when filing Form 4-11?

    Yes, individual petitioners have the option to apply for child support services through the Support Collection Unit by indicating their desire to do so on the Form 4-11. This option is available unless the individual is already receiving such services, does not require them due to the closure of a relevant public assistance case, or does not wish to apply. It’s a valuable service for ensuring the enforcement and management of support orders.

Common mistakes

When filling out the Form 4-11 (Support-Petition for Modification), people often make several mistakes that can impact the processing and outcome of their petition. It is crucial to complete this form with accuracy and attention to detail to avoid delays or issues with your request for modification of an order of support. Here are six common mistakes:

  1. Incorrect or incomplete personal information: Failing to provide full and correct personal information, including addresses and social security numbers (which should be submitted using the Personal Information Form 4-5/5-1d), can lead to significant processing delays.

  2. Omitting previous case details: Not including complete details of the previous action (such as the court name, docket/index number, and judgment or order details) can hinder the court's ability to understand the background and assess the petition properly.

  3. Failure to attach supporting documents: When petitioners forget to attach a true copy of the judgment or order that they wish to modify, it impedes the court's ability to verify the factual basis of the petition.

  4. Inaccurate information about children: Providing incorrect or incomplete details about the children involved (names, addresses, and dates of birth) can cause confusion and affect the outcomes related to child support modifications.

  5. Not specifying the change in circumstances: It’s important to clearly state the significant change in circumstances or the reason for the requested modification. Vague or unspecified claims make it difficult for the court to justify a modification.

  6. Neglecting to apply for child support services: For those who haven’t already, overlooking the option to apply for child support services through the Support Collection Unit can result in missing out on potential support and assistance.

Being thorough and precise while completing the Form 4-11 is paramount. Taking the time to review all the information provided and ensuring that all required documentation is attached will help in efficiently processing your petition for a modification of the support order.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with family court matters, specifically in relation to support modifications, a variety of documents are often required alongside the Form 4-11. These forms are crucial to providing a comprehensive view of the petitioner's situation and ensuring that all relevant legal and personal information is accurately conveyed to the court.

  • Form 4-5/5-1d (Personal Information Form): This form collects essential personal information, including social security numbers of the parties and any dependents, which is necessary for processing the case while maintaining privacy and security protocols.
  • Form 21 (Address Confidentiality Affirmation): This form is used when a party requests their address to be kept confidential due to health or safety risks. It affirms the need for confidentiality to protect the involved individuals.
  • Income and Expense Declaration: This document provides a detailed account of the petitioner's and respondent's financial situations, including income, expenses, assets, and debts, which helps the court determine the appropriate support modification.
  • Proof of Income: Submitted alongside the Income and Expense Declaration, this can include recent pay stubs, tax returns, or employer statements, providing verification of the incomes declared in the financial disclosures.
  • Existing Support Order(s): Copies of any existing support orders are necessary for review to understand the current obligations and to ascertain the basis for the requested modification.
  • Proof of Changed Circumstances: This can include documents or other evidence demonstrating a substantial change in circumstances, such as a medical bill for a serious health issue, a layoff notice, or other relevant material to support the claim of changed financial situations.
  • Child Support Services Application: For individuals applying for child support services through the IV-D program, this application is necessary to initiate or continue receiving support services from the Support Collection Unit.

Together, these documents support the Form 4-11 by providing a full picture of the circumstances surrounding the request for modification of a support order. They ensure that the court has all the relevant information needed to make a fair and informed decision. Whether you're requesting a modification due to financial changes, health issues, or another significant change in circumstances, having the correct documentation prepared is a key step in the process.

Similar forms

The Form 4-11 document is closely related to several other legal documents within the U.S. legal system, especially those concerned with family law and the modifications of judgments or orders. Below is a list of such documents, highlighting their similarities.

  • Form 4-5/5-1d (Personal Information Form): Similar to the 4-11, this form deals with personal and sensitive information. It's also used in family court proceedings, often accompanying petitions like the 4-11 to ensure all relevant personal data is properly filed.
  • Order of Protection Forms: These forms, while focused on protection rather than support, share the feature of seeking court intervention in personal and family matters. They are similar in procedural context, requiring detailed submissions to the court about personal circumstances.
  • Child Custody and Visitation Forms: These documents pertain to custody and visitation issues and are similar to the 4-11 form in that they seek to modify existing family law orders based on changes in circumstances or for the best interest of the child.
  • Petition for Divorce/Separation: Though the content focuses on ending a marriage, the structural process mirrors the 4-11 form, involving personal information, statements of circumstance, and requests for court orders.
  • Child Support Modification Forms: These are direct counterparts in the realm of child support, specifically tailored for changes in financial circumstances, echoing the 4-11’s purpose of modifying support orders.
  • Spousal Support Modification Forms: Aimed at modifying alimony or spousal support, these forms parallel the 4-11 in seeking adjustments to court orders based on new evidence or changes in circumstances.
  • Financial Disclosure Affidavit: While mainly for disclosing financial status, it's similar in the context of supporting documents needed for cases involving child or spousal support modifications, serving as essential background documentation.
  • Family Offense Petition: This form, used for claiming offenses within family contexts, shares procedural paths with the 4-11, where petitioners present cases to alter prior rulings or introduce new orders for family protection.
  • Form 21 (Confidentiality Form): Referenced in the 4-11 for its role in keeping addresses confidential, this form parallels the privacy concerns addressed in the 4-11, especially regarding the protection of personal information.

Each of these documents plays a unique role in family law proceedings but shares the commonality of requiring detailed information about parties’ current situations to assist the court in making informed decisions. From the modification of support orders to the handling of personal safety concerns, these documents, together with the Form 4-11, depict a legal framework designed to adapt to changing circumstances in family and individual contexts.

Dos and Don'ts

When dealing with the modification of an order of support through Form 4-11, it is crucial to approach the process with precision and care. To ensure clarity and avoid potential pitfalls, here are some recommended dos and don'ts:

Do:

  • Provide Accurate Information: Verify all personal details, financial information, and circumstances cited are current and accurate. Inaccurate data can lead to delays or unfavorable outcomes.
  • Attach Relevant Documentation: Supporting documents, such as a copy of the original support order and evidence of a significant change in circumstances, are essential to substantiate your request for modification.
  • Be Specific: Clearly outline how and why the existing support order should be modified. Specific details increase the likelihood of the court understanding and granting your request.
  • Follow Confidentiality Guidelines: If addresses are to be kept confidential due to health or safety risks, ensure this request is made clear, adhering to the Family Court Act §154-b regulations.
  • Consider Legal Assistance: Though not mandatory, consulting with an attorney can provide valuable guidance through the complexities of the legal system and help avoid common mistakes.

Don't:

  • Omit Required Forms: The Personal Information Form 4-5/5-1d, containing social security numbers, must be filed with this petition. Overlooking mandatory forms can result in the rejection of your petition.
  • Assume Automatic Eligibility: Ensure you have a genuine ground for modification, such as a substantial change in circumstances or an income change of fifteen percent or more since the order's last adjustment.
  • Ignore the Court's Orders: Any previous court directions regarding address confidentiality or payment arrears should be respected and followed in your application.
  • Delay Without Cause: If you have been delaying this application, be prepared to clearly justify such delays. Unexplained procrastination can impact the court's perception and decision on your petition.
  • Forget to Sign and Date: An unsigned or undated petition lacks validity. Always check that you have properly signed and dated the document before submission.

Misconceptions

  • One common misconception is that the Form 4-11 can only be used by individuals. In truth, assignee agencies have the capacity to file this form for support modification, as well as individuals who are directly involved with the child or children in question.

  • Many people mistakenly believe that once a support order is made, it cannot be altered. However, Form 4-11 specifically provides the means to request a modification of an existing order under certain circumstances, such as a substantial change in circumstances or a statutory period elapsing.

  • There's a misconception that the Form 4-11 can be filed only in the Family Court. Though primarily used in Family Court, modifications can also pertain to orders made by other courts, as indicated in the form itself.

  • It's incorrectly assumed that changes in financial circumstances are automatically accounted for. Petitioners must actively apply for a modification using Form 4-11 if there's a significant change in gross income or after a certain period as defined by law.

  • Some believe that incarceration automatically disqualifies a person from seeking a modification. Instead, incarceration can be a basis for alleging a substantial change in circumstances, especially if it impacts the individual's ability to pay child support.

  • There's a false notion that address confidentiality is automatically granted for all involved. The form clarifies that addresses may be kept confidential only if the court orders it, considering the health or safety risk disclosure might pose.

  • A common misunderstanding is that applying for child support services through the IV-D program can only be done at the initial filing for support. In fact, individuals can apply for these services when filing for a modification with Form 4-11.

  • Some people assume that past applications or petitions for modification can hinder the filing of Form 4-11. However, the form requires disclosure of previous or pending applications for the court to consider the current request properly.

  • It's mistakenly believed that requesting a modification due to cost of living adjustments is not possible. The form includes provisions for reviewing and adjusting orders based on cost of living changes, as directed by the Support Collection Unit.

  • Lastly, there's a misconception that once the form is filed, the modification is guaranteed. The truth is, the filing of Form 4-11 simply begins the process. Decisions on modifications are at the discretion of the court after reviewing the evidence and circumstances presented.

Key takeaways

Understanding the 4-11 form for modifying a support order in the Family Court of the State of New York involves several key points:

  • Personal Information Form 4-5/5-1d, which includes social security numbers of parties and dependents, must be submitted along with the Petition for Modification.
  • Applicants can request the modification of a support order issued by either the Family Court or another court.
  • Addresses of the petitioner and respondent must be specified unless a court has ordered these to be confidential for safety reasons.
  • Supporting documentation, such as a copy of the current judgment or order, must be attached to the petition.
  • Eligibility for a modification requires proof of a substantial change in circumstances, which can include changes in income by fifteen percent or more, or three years passing since the order was last entered, modified, or adjusted.
  • Applicants can apply for child support services from the Support Collection Unit (IV-D program) through the filing of this petition, with specific conditions for those already receiving such services or wishing to decline them.
  • Any previous applications related to the requested relief, whether pending or reviewed by any judge or court including Native American tribunals, must be disclosed.
  • A cost of living adjustment to the support order can be requested by either party or applied automatically by the Support Collection Unit no earlier than twenty-four months after the order was issued, last modified, or last adjusted.

These elements are essential for correctly completing and utilizing the Form 4-11 to seek a modification in a support order.

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