Knezovich v. Knezovich
340 P.3d 1034
Wyo.2015Background
- Parties divorced in 2004; Mother awarded primary custody, Father ordered to pay $400/month child support.
- In June 2011 Father petitioned to modify custody; Mother counter-petitioned for modification of child support.
- Final hearing occurred in August 2013; custody/visitation largely resolved, leaving only support and medical expenses for dispute.
- District court imputed Mother’s net income to $2,100/month due to voluntary underemployment after she started a photography business.
- Court ordered Father’s modified support retroactive to June 2011 and set arrears at $12,971.88, payable at $100/month, while noting Mother was underemployed.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whether the district court abused discretion in determining Mother's income. | Knezovich argues the court erred in imputing income. | Mother contends income should reflect actual earnings and deductions. | No reversible abuse; record insufficient for review. |
| Whether the district court abused discretion in retroactively modifying support. | Knezovich asserts retroactivity was improper. | Mother argues retroactivity is allowed under statute. | Auto-retroactivity permitted; but review limited by absent transcript record. |
Key Cases Cited
- Barrett-Oliver v. Quast, 302 P.3d 909 (Wy. 2013) (child support discretion guided by district court rulings)
- Arnold v. Day, 158 P.3d 694 (Wy. 2007) (record on appeal essential for review)
- Lykins v. Habitat for Humanity, 237 P.3d 405 (Wy. 2010) (absence of transcript requires presumption of regularity)
- Ready v. Ready, 76 P.3d 836 (Wy. 2003) (district court discretion in child support matters)
- Walker v. Walker, 311 P.3d 170 (Wy. 2013) (retroactive modification of support reviewed for abuse of discretion)
