It’s the Law: You Must Provide for Your Kids
When it comes to child support, it’s not surprising when the non-custodial parent ends up falling behind on payments (known as arrearage). It’s usually not intentional or out of any ill intent, but rather due to difficulty making the payments. However, the custodial parent may suffer financial consequences as a result of this delinquency – which directly impacts the child.
Proper financial support for children is something that not just parents have a stake in, but the government as well. It’s for that reason that Oklahoma law mandates both parents must provide for their children until they reach the legal age of adulthood.
Failure to pay child support in Oklahoma can lead to various consequences, including garnished wages and even jail time.
Collecting Child Support in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, wage garnishment is the most common method used to collect past-due child support payments. In other words, until the delinquent parent is current in their payments once more, the delinquent amounts will be deducted from their paycheck. This is known as income assignment and is usually done by the local District Attorney’s office or the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.
Possible Consequences for Not Paying Child Support in Oklahoma
The consequences for failure to pay child support can be serious:
- Withheld income
- Suspension of driving privileges
- Damaged reputation
- Inability to rent a car
- Passport suspension
Most importantly, it could result in jail time – up to four years – and fines of up to $5,000. Delinquent child support could be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony in Oklahoma.
Initial Consultation With ann Oklahoma Child Support Attorney
Both parents must support their children in Oklahoma. If you are raising a child and dealing with past-due child support, that directly impacts you and, more importantly, your child. Call an Oklahoma City child support attorney for help. Our experienced child support lawyers in OKC will provide you with the confidence you need to move forward.
For a initial consultation with one of our OKC child support attorneys, call 405-880-8222 today. If you prefer e-mail, send us your question using the “Ask the Lawyer” form on the right side of this page. Whichever method you choose, a child support attorney in OKC will be in touch with you shortly.