I will ask this on the Blended Families board but thought I'd try here first just to see if anyone knows something regarding local policy. I know the chances are slim that someone will have an answer but I know there are some ladies who might be able to weigh in about child support (from either angle).
My husbands ex-wife recently decided to have child support re-calculated and it doubled because he had an excellent year of sales in 2009. As I understand it, the re-calc is based on last year's income alone, whereas initial child support is calculated based on three years of salary.
Although any increase would be hard, he is willing to contribute more each month. However, doubling the payment is almost crippling. My husband tried to negotiate a more reasonable increase with her and she said no. We are appealing it with the court.
As our luck would have it, she just lost her job. (She does have a new husband with a good job so her income is not the only one). She says the court could decide to increase it even more because she has no income. Needless to say, that would be devastating for our financial situation.
Here's my question: Does anyone know if this is true or is she trying to get him to stop the appeal? I heard that once it leaves child support services and goes to the court, they look at more than just the one year's earnings.
Sorry to ramble. This is my life lately and frankly, it sucks.

Re: Child Support Question (long)
We are in Warren County but the paperwork was done in Clermont so that's where everything is based.
Thanks for offering your email. I'll send you something tonight.
That is ridiculous! I do know there is a max% of one's income that can be taken out. I would think that given the nature of his job, that it could be acconted for in some way.
I also thought tha the last time I perused the ODJFS website that it said you could use an average of the last 3 years.
I guess I am not much help, I just feel your pain for more reasons than I should probably discuss on a public message board. (disclaimer: I am not opposed to DH paying his fair share either, I just feel that the way the state handles it is a bit skewed.)
Oh, and good luck on the BF board, I stay far far far away from that place, but do have another place that I can ask the question if you need me to.
I hear you! I was hesitant to post there but the responses I've received have actually been kind of helpful and not snarky. If you have another source, I sure would love to hear another perspective if you don't mind checking.
Thanks for all the replies. I know it's a yucky subject but I really appreciate the feedback. Every little bit of encouragement gives me a bit more peace. If anybody else wants to add her two cents, I certainly would welcome it.
What she said!
Divorce and blended families are hard enough under the best of circumstances. It's just horrible when one (or both or more) of the adults involved can't conduct themselves in a dignified way. I hope you all get this figured out in a way that works out fairly for all involved. Your DH certainly should not be her cash cow. That she is trying to scare you all with larger payments is childish. Good luck to you guys.
My mom is a case manager for ODJFS. I just called her to ask her about your situation.
First, if your income changes by more than 30% in a 6 month time period then they can change it based on the new income.
Second, she can ask for more money if she loses her job. It is circumstantial. If she out right quits, then no more money will be awarded. If she is downsized, she could have a good case.
I know this is probably not what you wanted to hear. Good luck to you guys!
Tyler Anthony arrived on 9.21.09
The Chronicles of Justin and Tyler
This made me chuckle. Thanks! I needed that today (as well as your kind words). With every "situation" I get more creative with words to desribe her!
You should join the BF support group that ria and I belong to...very helpful with a great bunch of ladies!