When a divorce involves minor-aged children, child support will likely be part of the proceedings. The family court judge will order that one parent pay child support and the consequences can be very dire if they don't comply. Read on to find out more. 

What Is Child Support?

Child support is a legal obligation that requires a non-custodial parent to provide financial assistance to the custodial parent for the care and well-being of their child. The purpose of child support is to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial needs of their children, even if they are no longer in a relationship. Child support can cover a range of expenses related to the child's needs, such as housing, food, clothing, medical care, education, and extracurricular activities. The amount of child support is typically determined by a judge based on the income of the non-custodial parent, the needs of the child, and other factors.

What Could Happen if You Fail to Pay Child Support

The specific consequences can vary depending on the laws of the jurisdiction where the order was issued, as well as the specific circumstances of the case. Some potential consequences of failing to pay child support can include:

• Wage garnishment: The court may order the non-paying parent's wages to be garnished, meaning that a portion of their paycheck is automatically withheld and sent directly to the custodial parent.
• Seizure of assets: The court may seize the non-paying parent's assets, such as bank accounts, tax refunds, or property, to satisfy the child support debt.
• Suspension of driver's license or other professional licenses: In some cases, the court may suspend the non-paying parent's driver's license or other professional licenses, such as a license to practice law or medicine.
• Contempt of court: If a parent fails to comply with a child support order, they may be found in contempt of court, which can result in fines or even jail time.

These consequences are intended to compel compliance with the child support order, rather than to punish the non-paying parent. In many cases, it may be possible for the non-paying parent to work out a payment plan or modification to the child support order to avoid legal consequences. If you are behind on your child support obligation or your ex-spouse is in arrears, speak to a family law attorney for help. Arrangements can be made, orders can be altered, and more can be done to get things back on track. 

Contact a local divorce lawyer to learn more. 

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