Child support is an essential part of any divorce or separation where children are involved. It’s a court-ordered payment that a non-custodial parent makes to the custodial parent to help cover the expenses of raising the child. In Arizona, enforcing child support orders is taken seriously by the state. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to enforce an Arizona child support order.
- Know Your Child Support Order: The first step in enforcing a child support order is to know the details of the order. This includes the amount of the payment, the payment schedule, and any other requirements or
conditions outlined in the order. If you don’t have a copy of the order, contact the court or your attorney to obtain one. - Keep Records: Keep records of all payments received and missed payments. This will help you in case you need to take legal action to enforce the order. You should also keep records of any communication you have with the non-custodial parent regarding child support payments.
- Communicate with the Non-Custodial Parent: Before taking legal action, try to communicate with the non-custodial parent about the missed payments. Sometimes, missed payments can be due to a simple misunderstanding or a financial hardship. By communicating, you may be able to resolve the issue without involving the court.
- File a Complaint: If the non-custodial parent fails to make payments, you can file a complaint with the court. The court will then issue a summons to the non-custodial parent, requiring them to appear in court and explain why they haven’t made payments. If the non-custodial parent doesn’t appear in court, the court may issue a warrant for their arrest.
- Wage Garnishment: If the non-custodial parent continues to miss payments, the court can order their employer to garnish their wages. This means that a portion of their paycheck will be withheld and sent directly to you to cover the child support payments.
- Seizure of Assets: If the non-custodial parent still doesn’t comply with the child support order, the court can order the seizure of their assets. This can include their bank accounts, property, and other assets that can be sold to cover the missed payments.
- Seek Legal Help: Enforcing a child support order can be a complicated and lengthy process. If you’re having trouble enforcing your child support order, consider seeking legal help from an attorney who specializes in family law.
- Use the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES): The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) provides assistance in enforcing child support orders. You can contact the DES and request their help in enforcing your child support order. The DES can use various methods to enforce the order, including wage garnishment and seizure of assets.
- Stay Up-to-Date with Changes: It’s important to stay up-to-date with any changes to your child support order. This includes changes to the payment amount, the payment schedule, or any other conditions outlined in the order. If you’re unsure about any changes, contact the court or your attorney for clarification.
- Keep a Positive Attitude: Enforcing a child support order can be a stressful and emotional process. It’s important to stay positive and focused on your child’s well-being. Remember that the child support payments are meant to provide for your child’s needs and expenses.
Enforcing a child support order in Arizona can be challenging, but it’s essential for your child’s well-being. By knowing your child support order, keeping records, communicating with the non-custodial parent, filing a complaint, seeking legal help, and using resources like the Arizona Department of Economic Security, you can ensure that your child receives the financial support they need. Stay positive, stay focused, and always put your child’s best interests first.
Smith & Green, Attorneys At Law, P.L.L.C. can provide legal assistance in Arizona child support order cases. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the legal system and enforce your child support order. Here are some ways we can help:
Legal Advice: Our attorneys can provide you with legal advice on how to enforce your child support order. We can explain the legal process and the options available to you.
Court Representation: If you need to file a complaint or appear in court, our attorneys can represent you in court. We can prepare and file legal documents on your behalf, and argue your case in court.
Negotiation: Sometimes, missed child support payments can be resolved through negotiation. Our attorneys can help you negotiate with the non-custodial parent to resolve the issue and avoid going to court.
Mediation: Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps you and the non-custodial parent resolve the issue. Our attorneys can represent you in mediation and help you reach a resolution that works for you and your child.
Enforcement Actions: If the non-custodial parent still doesn’t comply with the child support order, our attorneys can help you take enforcement actions. This can include wage garnishment, seizure of assets, or other legal actions to ensure that the child support order is enforced.
At Smith & Green, Attorneys At Law, P.L.L.C., we understand the importance of child support and the impact it can have on your child’s well-being. We’re here to provide you with the legal assistance you need to enforce your child support order and ensure that your child receives the support they need.