If your ex-spouse has suddenly stopped making child support payments, it can throw your entire financial life into chaos. You rely on those funds to provide stability for your children, and dealing with non-payment is incredibly stressful. As an experienced family law firm in Destin, Florida, the team at Matthews & Matthews, LLP understands how vital these payments are. Fortunately, the state of Florida provides legal mechanisms to ensure your children receive the support they are legally owed. If you are dealing with a non-paying co-parent, here are three essential legal steps you should take. Schedule a consultation today.
Document Everything and Keep Accurate Records
Before initiating legal action, gather all evidence of non-payment. Track exactly when the payments stopped, how much is owed, and keep copies of all communication regarding the missing support. Avoid accepting informal, verbal agreements that alter the court-ordered amount.
File a Motion for Civil Contempt and Enforcement
Partnering with one of our skilled child support attorneys is your best path forward. They can help you file a formal motion with the Florida family court. If the judge finds that your ex-spouse has the ability to pay but is willfully refusing, they can be held in contempt of court.
Utilize State Enforcement Remedies
A Florida judge has powerful tools to enforce a child support order. Your family lawyer can request remedies such as wage garnishment (withholding support directly from their paycheck), intercepting tax refunds, suspending their driver’s license, or placing liens on their property.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION TODAY
You do not have to navigate this frustrating process alone. If you need a dedicated divorce attorney or family lawyer to protect your rights and fight for your children, contact Matthews & Matthews, LLP in Destin, Florida, today to schedule a consultation and get the support you deserve.