Enforcing a child support order is an essential process to ensure that you and your child(ren) receive the financial support you need. In Florida, child support enforcement is taken very seriously, and there are specific steps and mechanisms in place to help parents collect the support owed. Let’s dig deeper into some of the methods available for enforcing child support orders in Florida and the essential steps to ensure compliance.
A child support order in Florida is a court-issued document that mandates a parent who does not have physical custody, also known as the non-custodial parent, to provide financial support to the custodial parent for the well-being of their child. The amount is typically determined using state guidelines, factoring in the income of both parents, the number of children, and other relevant expenses.
If you’re having trouble with compliance of a court-mandated child support order, here are some of the enforcement strategies Florida currently has in place and some good places to start looking for help:
Contact the Florida Department of Revenue: The first step in enforcing a child support order is to contact the Florida Department of Revenue's Child Support Program. They can provide information about available enforcement methods and help you in the process.
Gather Documentation: Keep thorough records of all child support payments, including missed payments, correspondence, and any relevant information that can serve as evidence of noncompliance.
Consult an Attorney: If you encounter difficulties in enforcing a child support order, consider consulting a family law attorney experienced in Florida's child support laws. An attorney can guide you through the legal process and advocate for your child's best interests.
Income Withholding: Florida law requires income withholding for child support. This means that the noncustodial parent's employer must deduct child support payments directly from their paycheck and send the funds to the Florida State Disbursement Unit (SDU).
Income Tax Refund Intercept: The Florida Department of Revenue has the authority to intercept the state and federal income tax refunds of noncustodial parents who owe overdue child support.
Driver's License Suspension: Florida can suspend the driver's license of a noncustodial parent who falls behind on child support payments. This suspension can act as a strong motivator for compliance.
Property Liens: The state may place liens on the noncustodial parent's real property or assets, such as bank accounts, to secure unpaid child support. In some cases, these assets may be seized to fulfill child support arrears.
Contempt of Court: Consistent refusal to pay child support can lead to a noncustodial parent being held in contempt of court. Penalties may include fines, probation, or imprisonment until they follow the court's orders.
Professional License Suspension: Florida law allows for the suspension of professional and occupational licenses for noncompliance with child support orders. This can affect careers in law, medicine, and various other fields.
Passport Denial: If a noncustodial parent owes a significant amount in child support, their ability to obtain or renew a passport may be denied, restricting international travel.
Enforcing a child support order is crucial to ensure that children receive the financial support they need to thrive. In Florida, various legal mechanisms are in place to help custodial parents secure the financial support they are entitled to. If you find yourself in a situation where enforcement is necessary, reach out to the Florida Department of Revenue's Child Support Program or consult with a knowledgeable, experienced family law attorney. Your child's financial stability is worth the effort, and Florida is committed to ensuring that child support orders are enforced effectively.
