Important Child Support Facts in Indiana

Despite the fact that almost all parents love and cherish their children, when it comes to paying child support to a former spouse, it’s very common for issues to arise. Child support is a hot-button issue that can often turn very combative. It’s also an issue that many people don’t completely understand. Even some people who are already in a situation of paying child support don’t always know all the rules. If you pay or receive child support, or you are about to go through a divorce and you have children, then it’s a good idea to understand how child support laws work in Indiana.

For example, what happens if the paying parent decides not to honor the law and make the monthly child support payment? Can the receiving parent do anything about it? If the noncustodial parent has income but is not paying child support, then the receiving parent can ask the court to implement legal measures in order to enforce payment. This could include wage garnishment, or even jail time for the noncompliant parent. In addition, if the noncustodial parent won’t comply and the debt is already more than $1,500 then the court can suspend his or her license. The court can also prevent that parent from renewing any business licenses as well as visas or passports. Other possible measures include placing liens on property or intercepting any tax refunds.

On the other side of the argument, many times the paying parent feels that the custodial parent is not using the funds properly. This can be one of the biggest sources of contention when it comes to child support. The noncustodial parent often feels as though the money is being used for the former spouse instead of the children. However, it is very difficult to prove that the money is not being used properly. The court is not likely to evaluate how the money is spent unless there is evidence that the custodial parent is guilty of neglect or abuse.

These are just a few of the common issues that often occur in child support situations. There are many others as well. Child support issues can be tough to deal with, especially if you aren’t aware of all the laws and regulations. That’s just one more reason that seeking the help of an experienced Fort Wayne divorce attorney is a very good idea when it comes to matters of child support. Please contact The Bellinger Law Office at 260-428-2214 for help with your child support matters. You can also contact us online by clicking here.