Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey
Non-custodial parent doesn't pay enough child support
Aren't there any repercussions for the non-custodial parent who doesn't pay the amount of child support ordered by the court? My ex is constantly changing jobs, collecting unemployment and only paying support whenever the state garnishes his wages or unemployment checks but it's never the full amount. Why are there no penalities for this? I feel he gets rewarded in that it goes to arrears and he has more time to pay it off. Meanwhile I struggle to keep a roof over my child's head and food on the table for her.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Non-custodial parent doesn't pay enough child support
There are severe penalties for non-payment including suspension of driver's license or arrest. If you have a Probation officer handling your account you should contact them to see why nothing is being done. You can also file your own motion for the Court to take appropriate action to compel payment.
Re: Non-custodial parent doesn't pay enough child support
Often times, you need a good attorney to make sure the system is working. However, it could be tough to hire one in your situation. Thus, you are in a catch 22 that many people are in.