The impact of delinquent child support payments

Couples in Orange County, California, who have gone through a divorce, may declare themselves single when the proceedings are over. Still, each parent needs to think of their responsibilities as a parent, such as child support payments. Child support is typically settled during the divorce proceeding and implemented afterward.

The amount of child support is generally determined after studying the incomes of each parent, in addition to other factors.

Child support is generally meant to be used for health care, tuition fees and everyday expenses of children. Delayed or delinquent payments may cause hardships to the custodial parent and to the children who are recipients of the support.

Every state has strict rules when it comes to the collection of child support payments.

One example is a child support enforcement roundup that recently took place in Calcasieu, Louisiana. Deputies within the area are adamant about their campaign in arresting delinquent mothers and fathers. The mothers and fathers owe back child support and reportedly had previously failed to show up in court.

One mother who was caught during the roundup said she was behind on payments. In order to avoid ending up in jail and losing her job, she tried to borrow money. Authorities have now helped the woman with her situation so she can continue working as a painter.

Child support orders can sometimes be modified as long as the parent seeking the modification proves in court that he or she is incapable of paying the agreed upon amount, or that the child’s needs have changed. Factors that may trigger the need for a modification are unemployment or a serious medical condition.

It is important that the paying parent remains current with child support payments until a modification is approved in order to avoid being held in contempt of court and facing consequences for nonpayment.

Source: Kplctv.com, “Child support roundup targets deadbeat parents,” Theresa Schmidt, Dec. 12, 2012