- What happens if a parent does not pay courtordered support?
- The parent may be found in contempt of court. Depending on state law, the court can order money withheld from the parent's pay, put the parent in jail, or impose other enforcement remedies.
- Does the parent receiving child-support have to account for how the money is spent?
- No, except in the rare instance when the court might order it. However, keeping records may help determine the children's financial needs.
- How long must support be paid?
- State laws vary, but generally until the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18) and graduates from high school, or becomes emancipated. The judge determines emancipation as well as special circumstances requiring support beyond the age of majority, such as a child's disability or educational needs.
- Are support payments ever adjusted?
- Yes, but only if a parent can prove to the court that there has been a substantial change in circumstances or both parents agree. Changes in a child's needs or either parent's income could be the basis for modification. Generally, a change, if approved, will not be effective until formally requested.
- Does support have to be paid when the children stay with the non-custodial/nonresidential parent for more than a week at a time?
- Yes. Unless specified in the support order, support does have to be paid since the majority of child-related expenses continue whether or not the child is there. There are circumstances when an order may suspend or credit support for a period of time.
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