How Do Child Support Orders Get Enforced?

How Do Child Support Orders Get Enforced?

If you are legally bound by a child support order you might be wondering how it is enforced. Whether you are on the receiving end or paying end of child support, it is important to know that these orders are backed by the law and cannot be skirted. Wondering more about how these child support orders are enforced? Keep reading to learn more about how child support is enforced and how Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLC can help you through modification requests.

How is child support calculated?

The first thing you need to know about child support is how they get calculated. Child support in California is calculated based on the state’s official guideline Calculation Formula. This takes into account:

  • The time that each parent has the child in their custody and control
  • Gross income of each parent
  • Tax filing status of each parent
  • Child care costs
  • Other mandatory expenses such as health insurance costs, union dues, and support of other children

How do child support orders get enforced?

Once a child support order is in place there are many ways to enforce it. It can be enforced through wage garnishment, levies, and contempt. In the State of California, you can actually go to jail if you fail to pay child support. That is why it is important to stay up to date and current on all child support payments.

What if I cannot afford child support payments?

If you cannot afford child support payments specified in the court order you need to file a modification request. Doing so will alert the court to the change in circumstance that requires a reduction in child support payments. Without a modification in place, you are still responsible for the amount specified in the original order.

If you need help with a child support enforcement or modification case, contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP today!

If you are dealing with child support enforcement or modification concerns, Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLC is here to help. We have over 30 years of experience working with child support cases in California and there is no question that we cannot answer. If you cannot afford child support payments or your ex has stopped paying, we can help. If you need help with your child support case, contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLC today to schedule your initial consultation.

To learn more about the reliable and quality family law services that we offer, visit us on the web at Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLC.