What to Do When Child Support is Not Paid in Commerce, GA
Child support orders in Georgia help to ensure that both parents continue supporting their shared children financially, and they are designed to uphold the children’s best interests. If your ex has a child support obligation, it is legally binding, so you can act. The child support you receive allows you to continue providing for your children, and our experienced Commerce, GA child support attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland are here to help.
Child Support Cases in Commerce, GA
If your ex is ignoring your child support order, you can address the matter through the Georgia Division of Child Support Services (DCSS). DCSS has the authority to withhold your spouse’s income. If, however, more significant intervention is required, your Commerce, GA, case will be heard at the Jackson County Superior Court in Jefferson. Regardless of the situation. It’s always in your best interest to consult with a seasoned child support lawyer.
Key Steps on the Journey Forward
Your child support case will be unique to the specific circumstances involved, but the following important steps are always a good idea:
- Keep a careful track of every missed or inadequate payment, as well as any related communication with your ex.
- Consult with a knowledgeable child support attorney and proceed in accordance with their skilled guidance.
- Discuss your concerns openly with your ex. There may be a valid reason for the delay, and you may be able to rectify the matter together.
- If the issue hasn’t been resolved at this point, it’s likely time to take legal action.
Ignoring the issue will only lead to further complications and will leave your children with less support than they deserve.
Your Motion for Contempt Case
If your ex fails to pay court-ordered child support, you can file a motion for contempt, which is a civil proceeding. In your case, you will seek compensation for your ex’s delinquent payments. You can also ask the judge to penalize your children’s other parent for willfully ignoring the child support order.
The primary tools at the court’s disposal, depending on the circumstances involved, include all the following:
- Interest that is accrued at 7 percent, beginning 30 days after the child support due date, under certain circumstances
- Wage garnishment
- Asset seizure
- The interception of tax refunds
- Driver’s license suspension
- Suspension of professional or recreational licensure
- Denial of passport issuance or renewal
If your ex hasn’t paid child support for at least 30 days, the misdemeanor charge of child abandonment may apply. Convictions carry fines of up to $1,000 and jail sentences of up to a year.
It’s Time to Consult with Our Experienced Attorneys
Our well-respected Commerce, GA, child custody attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland bring the full scope of our legal experience to every case we handle, pursuing advantageous resolutions. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online or calling our firm at 770-887-1209 today.