What if My Ex isn’t Paying Child Support?
Divorce Attorney in Daytona Beach, FL – Carol Lee Peake - Daytona Family Lawyer – Port Orange, New Smyrna, Flagler, Ormond Beach, Deland, Palm Coast
The state of Florida has specific laws and regulations in place to ensure that parents are financially supporting their children. Unfortunately, some parents may be unwilling or unable to pay the court-ordered child support. If this is the case for you, then you may be wondering what options you have. Keep reading to learn more about how child support works in Florida and what actions you can take if your ex is not paying.
The Basics of Child Support in Florida
In Florida, both parents are required to financially support their children until they reach 18 years old or graduate from high school, whichever comes first. The amount of money a parent pays for child support is determined by the court based on both parents’ income, as well as other factors like childcare costs and medical expenses. Once an order for payment has been established, it is the responsibility of both parties to adhere to it.
What You Can Do if Your Ex Is Not Paying Child Support
If your ex isn't paying their court-ordered child support, then there are a few steps you can take. First and foremost, make sure that you keep records of payments (or lack thereof) so that you can show proof if need be. You can also contact the local Department of Revenue (DOR) office and let them know about your situation; they will usually send a letter to your ex warning them about nonpayment and letting them know that their license or passport could be suspended if they do not begin making payments soon. Additionally, DOR has the authority to garnish wages from employers who are withholding payments from employees who owe back child support payments. Lastly, it's important to speak with an experienced family law attorney who can help you explore other legal remedies such as filing a contempt action against your ex if they are willfully refusing to pay child support even after being formally notified by DOR.
Conclusion
Child support payments are essential for ensuring that children receive financial assistance from both parents until they reach adulthood or finish high school. If your ex is not adhering to the payment terms set out by the court, then there are a few things that you can do such as contacting the Department of Revenue and speaking with an experienced family law attorney who can help you take further action against them in order to get the money that is owed to your children. Don't hesitate—if you need help with any issues related to child support in Florida then contact an experienced family law attorney today!
If you are in need of a Divorce or Family Law Attorney, call the Law Office of Carol Lee Peake at (386) 868-4039 for a consultation.
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