It is common for custodial and non-custodial parents to disagree. Unfortunately, many non-custodial parents try to get even by not paying child support. They fail to understand that child support belongs to the children and not the parent. Indeed, support must be used to keep the children housed, clothed and fed.
Who Pays Child Support?
All parents must pay child support including unmarried men. Putative fathers should meet with child support lawyers in Henderson, NV if they want to contest paternity. These men must undergo a genetic test to prove paternity. If they are the father, they must pay child support.
Interestingly, courts may determine that some unrelated persons must pay. This happens when an individual claims a child as their own. Indeed, the courts are reluctant to allow them to change their minds. This is especially true if the child is left without sufficient monetary support.
There Is No Tit-For-Tat with Child Support
Child support lawyers in Henderson, NV explain that support has nothing to do with visitation. Many non-custodial parents use the actions of the custodial parent as a reason not to pay. That is because some parents withhold visitation when they are upset. However, the parties should seek a remedy in court rather than making the children suffer.
Child Support Payments Are Based on a Formula
Child support payments are determined according to a needs-based formula. The formula includes the parents’ income, the needs of the children, and other payments made by the parents. These payments include health insurance and school tuition.
Non-custodial parents are required to pay child support until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school. The payments may stop if the child becomes emancipated. For example, if a child marries, the parent is no longer obligated to support them.
There are many penalties for not paying support including losing a driver’s license. In addition, a parent can lose a professional license or a passport. Paychecks can be garnished and the government can seize income tax refunds.
As a last resort, the court may send repeat offenders to jail. They must stay incarcerated until they pay the arrears. For more information, visit us to website
