Legal Question in Family Law in Tennessee

Back Child Support and Denial of visitation

I was ordered by the court to pay $174.33 per week for support of my two children. I paid this until my oldest child reached the age of 18 and was emancupated. Using the child support calculator, I then dropped my support checks from 31% of my income to 21%. I have now received a summons for contempt of court, eighteen months later for not paying the 31% from the time I dropped the child support payment. Am I in error and therefore in contempt of court?

Also, I was denied any visitation of this eldest child. Isn't my ex wife in contempt for denying me my rights to visitation? If so, do I have any legal recourse at this time?


Asked on 7/14/00, 1:22 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jes Beard Jes Beard, Attorney at Law

Re: Back Child Support and Denial of visitation

Yes, under Tennessee law, you are in error. The child support obligation continues unchanged UNTIL THE COURT CHANGES IT.

You need to file an answer to the contempt petition against you, and to also petition the court to have your child support reduced to the 21% level and to punish your wife for her contempt.

Contact a lawyer with experience in this area.... and do so as quickly as possible.

If you would like to speak with me further on this, my office number is 423-267-4391, and you can frequently catch me in on weekends and evenings.

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Answered on 9/10/00, 1:00 pm


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