Child support is intended to ensure that children have the financial resources they need for housing, food, education, and healthcare. When one parent does not comply with a court-ordered child support obligation, the burden often falls on the custodial parent to cover those expenses.
In Iowa, failing to pay court-ordered child support is a serious issue with legal consequences, and our Des Moines family law attorney can help you take steps to enforce your rights.
Immediate Steps You Can Take
If the other parent is falling behind on payments, it is essential not to delay taking action. Document missed or partial payments and keep clear records of any communication with the other parent. This documentation will help demonstrate a pattern of nonpayment if you need to return to court.
You should also review your child support order to confirm the terms and ensure that the payments are truly overdue. In some cases, confusion about due dates or amounts may be the source of the problem, and clarification may resolve the issue before escalation is necessary.
Legal Remedies for Nonpayment
In Iowa, the Child Support Recovery Unit (CSRU) and the courts have several tools to enforce child support orders.
Depending on the circumstances, enforcement may include:
- Wage Garnishment: Automatically deducting child support from the nonpaying parent’s paycheck.
- Tax Refund Interception: Seizing state or federal tax refunds to cover unpaid support.
- License Suspension: Revoking or suspending a driver’s license or professional license until payments are made.
- Property Liens: Placing a lien on real estate or other valuable assets.
- Contempt of Court: Holding the nonpaying parent in contempt, which can lead to fines or even jail time.
Each of these remedies requires legal action, and having an attorney’s guidance can ensure that the enforcement process is handled efficiently and effectively.
Working With an Iowa Family Law Attorney
When child support is not being paid, it is often frustrating and stressful. Our family law attorney in Des Moines can help you understand your enforcement options, file the necessary petitions with the court, and represent your interests at hearings. We can also help determine whether modifications to the original order are appropriate if the paying parent’s financial situation has changed significantly.
Protecting Your Child’s Best Interests
At the heart of every child support case is the well-being of the child. Ensuring that payments are made consistently helps provide the stability children need to grow and thrive. Taking timely action not only enforces your legal rights but also reinforces the importance of parental responsibility.
Contact Our Des Moines Family Law Attorney Today
If the other parent is not paying court-ordered child support in Des Moines, you do not have to face the situation alone. At Feitelson Law Firm, our attorney is committed to helping parents enforce support orders and protect their children’s financial security. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your legal options.
