If you are a parent in Oklahoma and have been ordered to pay child support, it is essential to understand the consequences of not making those payments. Child support is a court-ordered payment made for the support of the couple’s child or children. In Oklahoma, child support payments are calculated using a number of factors, including each parent’s income, the amount of time each parent spends with the child, and healthcare costs and daycare expenses. If you fall behind on child support payments, there are several different actions the state can take to enforce the payment.
Consequences for Non-payment
If you are ordered to make child support payments and do not make those payments as ordered by the court, below are some of the consequences you may face.
Financial:
The first step the Oklahoma child support enforcement agency will take is to notify you that you are delinquent in your payments. If you do not make arrangements to catch up on your payments, the next step the state may take is to withhold income from your paycheck. The state can also intercept your federal and state tax refunds and any other government benefits you may be entitled to.
Licenses:
In addition, the state can suspend your driver’s or professional license, making it difficult for you to work and earn an income.
Jail:
If you continue to refuse to pay child support, you may be found in contempt of court, which can result in a jail sentence and fines. If you are behind on your child support payments, it is important to take action as soon as possible. Although technically, only one missed payment is enough to be held in contempt of court, options may be available to help you avoid jail time. If you struggle to pay child support, an attorney can help you work out the issue with your ex or possibly request a modification to your child support payments depending on the circumstances. Taking prompt action can help to avoid serious consequences, so if you are behind on child support, be sure to seek legal assistance as soon as possible.
Contact a Tulsa Child Support Attorney
Non-payment of child support can have severe consequences in Oklahoma. If you are behind on your payments, it is important to take action to catch up as soon as possible to avoid further penalties. If you are having difficulty making your payments, you may be able to modify your child support order to reduce the amount you owe. Tiffany Graves Law can help you understand your options and represent you in court. Call (918) 528-5156 today to schedule a consultation.
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