Legal Question in Family Law in Missouri
Medical Expenses on child
We have a court order requiring the mother to pay no child support. However she is required to pay 1/2 of insurance costs plus 1/2 of medical unpaid by insurance. If she refuses to pay how can this be collected? Can this go through the circuit clerks office or does it require still more legal fees?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Medical Expenses on child
Normally when one parent is refusing to do something the court ordered, we give that person every reasonable chance to comply and document the refusal. Then, assuming that person has the ability to comply with the court order, we file a Motion for Contempt and a Show Cause Order which the Judge signs requiring that person to appear in court and explain to the judge why they are refusing to follow the judge's orders. The judge can and often does give that person another chance to comply, but if necessary can put that person in jail or fine that person a certain amount of money for every day they refuse to comply. Yes, it may require some additonal legal fees, but most people will learn that they will be better off complying with the court's order, and in many cases you can obtain a court order requiring them to pay your attorneys fees. Good luck.