Child support enforcement is the process of ensuring that noncustodial parents meet their legal obligation to provide financial support for their children. This procedure consists of four key steps:

Initiating a child support case: A child support case can be undertaken by the custodial parent or a state agency by filing a petition with the court. The court will then issue an order establishing paternity and calculating the amount of child support to be paid, if necessary.

Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, employment, or the child’s needs, child support orders can be modified. The court can be petitioned by either the custodial or noncustodial parent to change the order.

Enforcing child support orders: The custodial parent may take action to enforce the court order if the noncustodial parent is not making payments. This could entail requesting a wage garnishment, putting in a motion for contempt of court, or getting a lien placed on the noncustodial parent’s assets.

Penalties for non-compliance: Parents who are not in the custody of their children but do not pay child support may be subject to several sanctions, such as criminal charges, suspension of professional or driver’s licenses, and contempt of court proceedings.

The process of enforcing child support can be difficult and time-consuming. It would help if you had an attorney to guide you through the procedure and defend your rights.