After child custody is established, many parents will end up with child support orders. These orders are generally designed to ensure children’s financial well-being so they can maintain the same standard of living with either parent after a separation occurs.
However, statistics show that around 30% of parents do not pay their monthly child support obligations. In these cases, non-paying parents can face significant consequences. Our child support attorney in Maryland is here to explain.
Punishment for Not Paying Support
If you have fallen behind on child support, you should seek help from a Maryland family lawyer immediately. Failing to fall behind could result in severe punishment. Some of the potential consequences include:
- Fines and Penalties: Non-compliant parents may face penalties imposed by the court for failing to meet their child support obligations..
- Interest Accrual: Unpaid child support, that has been reduced to judgment, may accrue interest over time, increasing the overall amount owed by the non-custodial parent. This serves as an additional incentive for timely payment and can significantly escalate the financial burden of non-compliance.
- Wage Garnishment: In addition to income withholding, Maryland may resort to wage garnishment to recover overdue child support payments. This involves redirecting a portion of the non-custodial parent’s wages to satisfy the outstanding debt.
- Civil Contempt: If a non-custodial parent is in civil contempt of court for willful failure to pay child support, they may be incarcerated until they comply with the court’s orders or make arrangements to satisfy the arrears.
If you are facing penalties for falling behind on child support in Maryland, it is imperative to seek the help of a child support attorney.
How a Family Lawyer in Maryland Can Help
There are several ways that a family lawyer in Maryland can help you if you are facing potential consequences for falling behind on a child support order.
- Legal Guidance: If you fall behind on your support order, a child support attorney in Maryland can help you better understand your rights and responsibilities. They can guide you through this difficult time and give you peace of mind.
- Negotiation: Your attorney can negotiate with the other party or legal representative to explore potential solutions. This may involve discussing repayment plans, modifications to the child support order, or other arrangements to address your arrears while minimizing the impact on your finances.
- Representation in Court: If your case escalates to a court proceeding, your attorney will represent you effectively. They will present your case before the judge, advocating for your interests and presenting compelling arguments to mitigate any penalties or enforcement actions sought against you.
- Enforcement Defense: In cases where enforcement actions, such as wage garnishment or property liens, have been initiated against you, your attorney will mount a strong defense on your behalf. They will investigate the enforcement proceedings to ensure compliance with due process and challenge any discrepancies or errors in the enforcement actions.
- Modification Petitions: If your financial circumstances have changed substantially since the issuance of the child support order, your attorney can assist you in filing a petition for modification. This may involve demonstrating to the court that a downward adjustment of your child support obligation is warranted based on factors such as loss of employment, income reduction, or other financial hardships.
- Legal Advocacy: Throughout the process, your attorney will serve as your advocate, providing vital support and representation to help you navigate the legal system. Given your circumstances, they will tirelessly protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
You must act immediately to ensure you are in the best possible position to protect your rights. Your attorney will use their experience, resources, and advocacy skills to help you effectively address penalties for falling behind on child support payments.
Call Our Child Support Attorney in Maryland Today
Dealing with the potential consequences of not paying child support can seem terrifying. However, with the right legal support, you can explore legal options to help you avoid harsh consequences and establish a more sustainable order.
At Brodsky Renehan Pearlstein & Bouquet, our dedicated child support attorney in Maryland will provide you with top-notch legal services. With decades of experience and a personalized approach, we are here to guide you through even the most challenging situations. Contact our team now to protect your rights.
