X2B lost job

[SP5150]

My wife and I have been seperated for about nine months, and are working out our final separation agreement before we actually file.  We split amicably, and will file for a no-fault divorce in October.  I'm currently giving her money for our child ($650'ish), and a little extra for her ($100'ish) though my lawyer told me I don't have too (we Were close enough in pay).  She just lost her job today, and though we imagine she'll get another one quickly, it may be significantly less than what she had been making. 
I imagine the child support / alimony payments will change with the divorce paperwork (?), but should it change now?  I don't have a desire to be penalized for her loss of employment (can't say that nicely at all!).

[Lee Borden]

The best guide on this issue will be the advice your lawyer gives you, because your lawyer knows what is customary in your area. In general, my tendency is to start with the income you think Mom will be earning in her new job and base support on that figure. Again, though, I would willingly defer to the judgment of your lawyer, who knows the facts of your case, the law in your jurisdiction, and the proclivities of your judge.

One other thought: it's not unusual for me to recommend to the primary wage earner that he or she pay LESS than they intend to pay. The last thing you want to do is to create a "safe haven" for Mom that makes signing binding documents the cause of a big pay cut.

[m_t]

Also, paying more voluntarily creates a dangerous precedent and the court may order you to continue paying that amount.