Generated on Jan 15, 2025, 11:36:56 AMgemini-1.5-flash
Honorable Judge [Judge's Last Name],
This letter addresses File # 597402, Docket # F-08413-16/20E, CSMS # BX96657N1, concerning the custody and child support arrangements for my children with Cristina [Mother's Last Name]. My primary concern is the current child support order's impact on my ability to provide for myself and maintain a meaningful relationship with my children, Isaac and [Second Child's Name].
My recent unemployment, from October 16th to December 15th, significantly impacted my ability to meet my financial obligations. While I diligently maintained my twice-weekly visits with the children, the added expenses of travel and food during those visits, coupled with limited unemployment benefits ($189 per week compared to Cristina's $252), made weekend visits impossible. This was despite my efforts to minimize expenses. I resumed employment on December 16th in Syosset, a location closer to my children than my previous job in Hauppauge, reducing travel time and costs.
The current child support order of $660 bi-weekly, plus $55 for childcare, and the $409 arrears, totaling $1227 bi-weekly, represents over 50% of my net monthly income of approximately $1901.60. This leaves me with insufficient funds to cover my essential living expenses. My monthly rent is $1450, gas is at least $400, and car insurance is $250. These expenses alone exceed my remaining income after child support, leaving no room for food, utilities, or other necessities. This is further complicated by the upcoming $400 monthly medical insurance premium starting in March.
I respectfully request a review of the child care costs included in the support order. I believe the $55 bi-weekly allocation for childcare for my 11-year-old son is unwarranted. He has resided with his grandmother for over four years, and prior to that, with an aunt. Cristina has consistently claimed childcare expenses for these family members, despite their providing free care. This pattern, dating back to 2020, suggests a deliberate misrepresentation of childcare costs to the court. I believe a fair assessment of actual childcare expenses is necessary.
My goal has always been to provide a safe and loving environment for my children. The distance between our residences presents a challenge, but I consistently make every effort to maximize my time with them. Cristina's unwillingness to cooperate with drop-offs and pick-ups further complicates this. Her repeated refusal to facilitate our visitation schedule, coupled with her financial claims, has created unnecessary conflict and financial strain.
I understand the court's responsibility to ensure the children's well-being. However, the current child support order, coupled with the questionable childcare expenses, places an undue burden on my ability to provide for myself and maintain a healthy relationship with my children. I respectfully request the court to reconsider the child support and childcare costs to reflect a more equitable and sustainable arrangement. I am willing to provide any further documentation or information to support my claims.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Isaac [Father's Last Name]
