From custody disputes to property distribution, the end of a marriage can be challenging in different ways. Sometimes, non-custodial and custodial parents run into hurdles related to child support. In Naples, and all over the state of Florida, it is essential for parents to do what they can to resolve child support issues appropriately. On the one hand, a custodial parent may be experiencing financial difficulties because they are not receiving the child support they are owed. On the other, a non-custodial parent may be unable to pay what they owe, which could lead to harsh penalties.
According to the United States Department of Justice, there are harsh penalties for failing to pay child support. Typically, child support cases are handled at the local and state level. However, there are certain times when unpaid child support leads to federal prosecution. For example, if someone owes more than $10,000 or has two years’ worth of back child support, they may face felony charges. On top of financial penalties, they could be sentenced to prison for two years.
Aside from time behind bars and fines, failing to pay child support can cause other hardships. For example, a parent may be unable to travel due to their inability to obtain a passport because of child support delinquency. Or, they may have their wages or tax refund garnished. As a result, these matters should be handled as soon as possible. Please understand that no part of this post serves as a substitute for legal help.
