Temporary child support refers to child support payment made to a person's spouse or partner while they are legally separated, or as they are getting divorced or dissolving a civil union.
Generally speaking, a spouse or partner will only be ordered to pay temporary child support if both parties are working towards getting a divorce or dissolving a civil union.
If a parent is ordered to pay temporary child support, they will have to make payments throughout the rest of the divorce or dissolution case, unless otherwise specified. Failure to make payments on time may result in harsh penalties.
If you experience a big change in financial circumstances, such as a change in employment status or a mental or physical disability, you may be able to change (modify) the temporary child support payments.