On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Paternity/Child Support on Thursday, June 26, 2014.
When a couple with children divorces, both parties may agree on co-parenting agreements or they can experience a situation far less amicable if these decisions are left up to the courts. Parents do not always agree with a judge’s ruling, but they should remember that the best interests of the child are always focused on when courts rule on matters of both custody and child support. This is true whether you live in the state of Missouri or elsewhere in the country.
Sometimes, these issues create further animosity between the parents who may be fighting for custody or parental rights in the courtroom. This could lead to hostile legal proceedings, such as a child support dispute.
Parents too often consider child support requirements as a punishment for the paying parent. This is not the case. Child support is ordered as a means of contributing to the well-being of a child and making sure that each parent is doing what they can to protect and provide for a child. When a parent is delinquent with payments, he or she could face serious penalties for shirking court orders.
An example of what might happen if child support obligations are disregarded is Steven Jordan, better known as Stevie J in the hip hop community. He was recently arrested for failure to pay child support for two of his children. In fact, the rap producer allegedly owes $1 million in support. The reason for his failure to pay has not been reported, but hopefully he will take action to get back on track with his support to avoid further penalties and potentially damaging his relationship with his children and their mother.
If you have experienced any issues involving child support, whether it involves collecting or paying, it is a good idea to seek legal advice. A licensed professional can work with you on the many facets of the legal process and perhaps help you understand your options.
Source: New York Daily News, “Steven (Stevie J) Jordan, ‘Love & Hip Hop’ star, released on bond after arrest for owing child support,” Daniel Beekman, June 24, 2014
