Child Support Mistakes You Should Avoid
The subject of child support is almost as adverse as divorce proceedings, as it can function as both a cause and effect on the finances of both parties. When the subject is raised in court, it’s common for people to want to ensure that they pay as little as possible. Some people may even resort to deceit just to achieve this, which will almost always create more trouble than it’s worth. If you’re being obliged to pay child support, these are some things you should never do.
Lying About Your Income
The determination of how much child support the non-custodial co-parent pays is similar to when a court calculates spousal support in a divorce. The court takes into account the income of the non-custodial parent as well as the expenses for the child or children. Lying about your income will lead to a hefty fine, and you can also be held in contempt of court. You can even lose custody of your child. You will also be obliged to pay child support arrears with interest, which will always be greater than the amount you would have paid by disclosing your real income.
Failing To Report Income-Related Changes
Whether you’re getting a promotion or losing a job, it’s important to let the court know so they are able to make the necessary changes to the child support you pay. The recipient of your child support may decide to make a change or to simply let you be.
Failing to disclose a promotion could lead to a lawsuit, in which case, you’re going to end up paying more. Failing to disclose a loss of income would mean that you’d be paying child support that you can barely afford.
Failing To Pay The Exact Amount Prescribed By Court
Always pay child support in full, even when your ex-spouse allows you to pay less than what is owed. If the court finds out that you haven’t been paying in full, your ex-spouse will be entitled to receive arrears, plus interest. If you’re having difficulty keeping up with child support, your best option is to apply for a child support modification to secure an amount that you’re comfortable with paying.
Forgetting To Adjust Your Finances
Paying child support can put a significant dent in your finances. If you have debts, it’s important to get in contact with your loan provider to have your contract adjusted. This also applies to insurance providers.
You are mandated to pay child support. This doesn’t mean that you’d have to allow yourself to go into debt because of it, especially since delinquencies will have an adverse impact on your credit score.
It’s also important that you get a capable alimony lawyer like the ones from the Law Offices of Steven M. Bishop. Experienced alimony lawyers will not only guide you on the things to avoid but will also help you attain fair child support conditions the right way. Foregoing professional help in any legal matter will only end badly. Always work with a lawyer.
