Coping with the aftermath of a separation or divorce can be especially difficult if there are children involved. As a couple, your goal is to provide the best possible outcome for your kids. But in some instances, it may be necessary to enlist the help of a child support lawyer to ensure the children are taken care of. Here are some frequently asked questions about how child support laws are enforced in Connecticut.

How Is Child Support Enforced?

What exactly is child support?

After a separation or divorce, it’s important to ensure special protections for the children. Child support payments ensure that kids’ lives won’t change significantly—especially in terms of financial stability—as a result of the split. It also often includes other requirements that are advantageous for the children, such as paying for health insurance and child care.

How is child support obtained?

In Connecticut, parents work with a child support lawyer to ensure a successful outcome, especially in contentious child custody cases. However, the parent may prefer to simply apply for child support through the state’s Department of Social Services. It’s possible to represent oneself in court without the assistance of a lawyer. However, working with an attorney who knows the intricacies of divorce and child support is the best way to ensure results, as they understand how the system works.  

How is a court order enforced?

If the court order isn’t followed, there are ways to ensure you receive payment. In some cases, the state may be able to enforce court orders by garnishing wages from the non-custodial parent. If the parent willfully doesn’t pay, that person may be found in contempt of court and sentenced to jail time until a specific sum is paid. The State can also intercept income tax refunds and suspend licenses.

What can a concerned parent do?

Because these situations are often difficult to navigate, you should work with a child support lawyer. The attorney can file a motion for contempt on your behalf against the non-paying parent. In order to build a successful case, you will need to work with your lawyer to show the child support order, along with evidence that shows the delinquent parent has the ability to pay but did not follow through. If the other party does not have a reasonable excuse for neglecting their duty, it may be considered a willful violation.

Are you concerned about a complicated child custody or family law situation? You can trust The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot, a child support lawyer in Litchfield County, CT. Offering over 20 years of experience, Attorney Jeannine takes a personal approach to each and every case to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your children. If you’re interested in learning more, visit the website for information or call (860) 482-9004.