Is Your Ex Paying Child Support?

 Posted on December 10, 2013 in Divorce

The divorce process is complicated, and becomes more so when there are children involved. Through the divorce process, assets are divided and arguments are settled, including issues like child support and visitation. The parent that does not have custodial rights must pay the custodial parent a set amount of money incrementally to cover costs of the child. This payment, however, is frequently the cause of many problems, particularly when it is not paid. MSN Money reported that recent national figures totaled $108 billion in unpaid child support in America, according to the federal Office of Child Support Enforcement. There is very little to do, however, once the child support has not been paid. It is important to do everything you can to ensure that it is paid so that you do not have to deal with the debt. Suggestions for ensuring that child support is paid from MSN Money include:  Keeping the noncustodial parent involved in the child’s life. Usually the custodial parent will have the sole responsibility for decision making, but the noncustodial parent can be included to keep him or her involved. If your ex is already not paying support, do not punish him or her because that may make the situation worse.  Do not include the child support payment in your budget. If you have had issues with not receiving the payment from your ex, do not count on it and get yourself into financial issues because of him or her. If your ex cannot pay all of the support, ask him to pay whatever he can. If your ex is having financial troubles, he (or she) should not be completely let off the hook, but should pay whatever he can and pay back the remaining balance as soon as possible.  Do not run to the court immediately, but keep it in mind. If you have continuous issues with your ex about child support, it may be time to bring the situation up in court. Contact your family law attorney in St. Charles, Ill. to assist you.