What To Do If A Former Spouse Refuses To Comply With Court-Ordered Child Support In Fort Lauderdale
For divorced parents, child support payments in Fort Lauderdale ensure that children from the marriage enjoy the same standard of living and have the financial resources they need to thrive. While child support gets addressed in Broward County divorce proceedings, it is common for one parent to refuse to pay.
Your children should not have to suffer due to disputes between you and your former partner. Our Fort Lauderdale child support attorney explains what to do if the other parent refuses to comply with the court order.
Determining Court-Ordered Child Support In Fort Lauderdale Divorce Cases
Child support gets addressed automatically in Broward County divorces involving parents. Under the Florida Statutes, judges follow strict guidelines when issuing child support orders. Factors they consider in determining the appropriate amount include:
- Each parent’s income and individual assets;
- Their earning potential, based on specific skills and schooling, if they are unemployed;
- Any custody arrangements and parenting plans put in place, as well as the overall amount the child spends in each parent’s home;
- The child’s needs, including any special education or medical care they require.
Once a child support order is in place, the paying parent is required to follow it. If they fail to make payments on time, they can be held in contempt of court and face harsh penalties.
When Your Former Spouse Refuses To Pay
One of the most painful things about going through a divorce in Fort Lauderdale is seeing the way it can cause your spouse to act out. This is difficult enough to deal with, but particularly heartbreaking when it impacts the children you had together.
Fortunately, you have options if a former spouse refuses to make court-ordered child support payments in Broward County. Follow these steps:
- Keep a copy of your child support order handy.
- Tell your former spouse how falling behind in payments impacts your children and that it will not be tolerated.
- Keep a journal documenting missed payments and any correspondence between you and your ex.
- Do not attempt to deny their rights to visitation, as this could put you in violation of your child custody order.
- Discuss your legal options with an experienced Fort Lauderdale child support attorney.
When a parent fails to pay court-ordered child support, they can be subject to enforcement actions through the Florida Department of Revenue, such as wage garnishment, asset seizure, and suspension of their driver’s and professional license.
For Help Getting The Child Support You Are Entitled To, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney
If you are divorced and struggling to get the child support your child is entitled to, contact the Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio. We hold your ex accountable under state laws and fight to get the total amount your child is owed. To protect your rights and your child’s financial security, contact our office. Schedule a consultation today with our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce and child support attorney.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.30.html
floridarevenue.com/childsupport/compliance/Pages/court_actions.aspx
