Child Support Enforcement

Child support is a legal obligation for a parent to financially support their child. It is typically paid to the other parent, who is the custodial parent, but it can also be paid directly to the child or to a third party, such as a child care provider. Child support can be ordered by a court as part of a divorce or separation, or it can be agreed to by the parents outside of court.

Why Child Support Enforcement is Important

Child support is not just a legal obligation; it’s a moral one. Courts typically establish child support orders to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial needs of their children.

Unfortunately, not everyone adheres to these obligations, putting children at risk. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only about 43.5% of custodial parents receive the full amount of child support they are entitled to (U.S. Census Bureau, 2018).

How Child Support Enforcement Works

The child support enforcement process typically begins when the custodial parent files a complaint with the court. The court will then issue an order requiring the non-custodial parent to pay child support. If the non-custodial parent fails to comply with the court order, the custodial parent can take a variety of enforcement actions, such as:

• Wage garnishment
• Tax refund intercept
• Liens
• Contempt of court

The Enforcement Process

Here’s a simplified rundown:

Petition Filing: An initial petition is filed with the court by the custodial parent.

Service of Process: The non-custodial parent must be formally notified.

Court Hearing: Both parties present their cases and financial documents.

Enforcement Actions: If the non-custodial parent fails to comply, various enforcement actions may be initiated, including license suspensions, seizure of assets, or even jail time.

What to Expect from our Brooklyn Family Lawyer

Child support enforcement is not just a legal necessity but a lifeline for your child’s well-being. When the system seems too cumbersome, or if you find yourself stuck, don’t hesitate to consult a family attorney in Brooklyn.

Levitsky Law Firm PLLC stands ready to assist you in fulfilling your obligations or obtaining what is rightfully yours, ensuring that your child’s needs aren’t just an afterthought but a priority.

If you’re wrestling with child support issues, now is the time to act. Contact Levitsky Law Firm PLLC today.