A child support order is a legal obligation, and serious penalties await those who fail to comply. If your former spouse isn’t paying the child support that was legally ordered, the law provides mechanisms to enforce the court order and compel payment. At Law Office of Michael L. Fell, our primary goal is to protect your family’s rights. For expert legal assistance, contact us at 949-585-9055 today. We are dedicated to obtaining the best outcome possible for your case.
Steps to Take If Child Support Payments Are Not Made
When a non-custodial parent fails to make child support payments, it’s crucial to take action promptly to ensure compliance and secure the owed support.
Consulting with an Attorney
The first step is to consult with an experienced attorney. Beyond seeking justice for missed payments, your attorney will work to recover back payments owed. For parents with limited income, these back payments can be essential for financial stability.
Enforcing the Order
There are several ways to enforce a child support order if the other parent fails to pay:
- Contact Local Authorities: Reach out to your local police department and request enforcement of the order.
- District Attorney’s Office: Contact the district attorney in your county, specifically the Child Abduction and Recovery Unit, for assistance.
- File for Contempt: Filing an action for contempt with the court asks the court to enforce the order and determine that the other parent willfully disobeyed the court order.
Federal Law and Child Support Enforcement
Federal laws also provide mechanisms to enforce child support orders, particularly in cases involving significant arrears or interstate issues.
Federal Prosecution
Parents who refuse to pay child support may face federal prosecution under certain conditions:
- Interstate Cases: If the child lives in a different state from the non-paying parent.
- Significant Arrears: If the missed payments exceed $5,000 or are more than a year overdue.
These violations are considered criminal misdemeanors and can result in fines and up to six months in prison if convicted. Federal enforcement adds an additional layer of accountability for non-compliant parents.
How Law Office of Michael L. Fell Can Help
At Law Office of Michael L. Fell, we are committed to providing honest legal representation and upholding your rights with integrity. Not receiving child support can make it challenging to provide for your child, and we are determined to resolve your case as swiftly as possible.
Contact Experienced Child Support Attorneys
Our team at Law Office of Michael L. Fell is dedicated to guiding you through any difficulties you may be facing. We have the expertise and commitment to ensure that your child support order is enforced and that you receive the support you are entitled to.
Comprehensive Legal Support
- Initial Consultation: We’ll start with a thorough review of your situation to understand your needs and develop a strategy.
- Enforcement Actions: Our attorneys will take the necessary legal steps to enforce the support order and secure back payments.
- Ongoing Support: We provide continuous support and updates throughout the process, ensuring you’re informed and empowered.
For assistance with enforcing a child support order, contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at 949-585-9055. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you navigate the legal system and secure the support your family deserves.