The intent of providing financial support for a child after a divorce is to provide for the child’s basic needs and allow for as much continuity of lifestyle as possible. Non-custodial parents typically pay child support to the parent who has primary custody or cares for more of the child’s daily needs. If you are the primary custodian of your child, you understand how critical it is to receive this type of financial support on a monthly basis.
It can be difficult for a Texas parent when the other will not take the necessary steps to care for his or her child. If your former spouse and the other parent of your child will not pay child support as directed by the court, there are options available to you. It is possible for you to take steps in pursuit of enforcement of your current child support order.
Consequences for unpaid child support
It’s extremely frustrating when the other parent will not pay child support as mandated by a court order. Thankfully, there are legal options available that will allow you to pursue a beneficial outcome, including the recouperation of missed support payments. You can appeal to the court to seek the support you need, and it may determine that any of the following are appropriate consequences for missed child support:
- Garnishment of wages
- Seizing the parent’s property
- Suspending a business or occupational license
- Withholding federal tax returns
- Revoking the parent’s driver’s license
It is possible to seek the enforcement of a child support order, even if the parent moves out of state. The court can also mandate that the supporting parent make up for past-due support, and unpaid child support is not eligible for discharge if that parent decides to file for bankruptcy. Every situation is different, and an assessment of your case will reveal if it is possible for you to seek legal recourse for unpaid child support.
The best interests of your child
The intent of child support is to provide for your children and ensure they have what they need. If the other parent is not adhering to the terms of a court order, you may benefit from an explanation of the options available to you. It may be in the best interests of your kids to appeal to the court for enforcement of your child support order.