Generated on Jan 15, 2025, 11:50:49 AMgemini-1.5-flash
To the Honorable Judge [Judge's Name],
Re: Case No. F-08413-16/20E; Isaac Pilier v. Cristina Lezcano
This letter addresses the ongoing child support and custody arrangements in the above-referenced case. I am writing to respectfully request a review of the current child support order in light of significant recent changes in my employment and circumstances, and to contest the ongoing child care expenses claimed by Ms. Lezcano.
As you know, I have always prioritized my children's well-being and maintaining a strong relationship with them, despite the geographical distance between our residences. The 45-minute commute each way has been a consistent challenge, but I have consistently made every effort to see them twice a week for homework and other activities, and every other weekend. My recent employment change from Hauppauge to Syosset has significantly reduced my commute time, allowing me more time with my children.
My previous employment termination on October 16th, 2023, resulted in a period of unemployment. During this time, I diligently maintained my bi-weekly visits with my children, despite the financial strain. I was unable to afford weekend visits due to increased transportation and food costs, which were exacerbated by my limited unemployment benefits ($189 per week) compared to Ms. Lezcano's ($252 per week). This is a point I believe is relevant to the arrears currently owed. I resumed employment on December 16th, 2023, at a salary of $75,000 per year. While this is less than my previous salary, it is a significant improvement over my unemployment income.
My primary concern is the ongoing child care expense of $55 per week for my 11-year-old son, Isaiah. This expense is unwarranted. Isaiah has lived with his grandmother for over four years, and prior to that, with an aunt. Ms. Lezcano has repeatedly claimed to pay for childcare to these family members, providing handwritten receipts as evidence. I believe this is a deliberate misrepresentation of the facts, and I request a thorough investigation into these claims. The same pattern occurred during my previous period of unemployment in 2020, resulting in unjustified arrears that were not dismissed. This pattern of behavior suggests a deliberate attempt to inflate child care costs.
My current net income is $2,177.80 bi-weekly. With the current child support order of $660.66, plus the contested $55 weekly child care expense, and the $409 arrears, my bi-weekly payment totals $1,227. This leaves me with $950.80 until my next paycheck. My monthly take-home pay, after accounting for child support and care, is $1,901.60. Considering my monthly expenses – rent ($1450), gas ($400), and car insurance ($250) – I am left with very little for food and other essential expenses, especially considering my upcoming medical insurance costs of $400 per month starting in March. This leaves me with insufficient funds to meet my basic needs and maintain a reasonable standard of living.
I respectfully request the court to review the current child support order, considering my reduced income, the unsubstantiated child care expenses, and the history of Ms. Lezcano's actions. I believe a fair and equitable adjustment is necessary to reflect the current circumstances and ensure a just outcome for both parties. I am prepared to provide any additional documentation or information the court requires.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Isaac Pilier
