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Three Common Questions Regarding Child Support
In your life, when experiencing a divorce with children, issues may be raised regarding child support that neither parent can anticipate. You may have many unresolved questions when a court order has been issued. These questions are very commonly asked on websites, discussion forums and question-and-answer websites. Below are some of the most common questions asked around the internet. You will want to contact your child support lawyer with any other questions or concerns and/or advice.
One of the questions is “Are verbal agreements legally enforceable?” When going through a separation or divorce it is a common thing to place a verbal agreement between the parents. It is also very common that one of the parents change their minds during a period of time. This results in the other parent becoming very angry and bitter and most of the time quite confused. A good way to avoid this all together is to make your verbal agreement into writing and file it with the court. This way you are not stuck in a situation that can turn very ugly. This way if you are put in the situation, you will be in a better position and can take legal action in correcting the issue.
The second most common question is “How long after graduation does the child support continue?” This can vary from state to state. In most states, though, the child support will continue until the child reaches eighteen or graduates high school, whichever comes later. Depending on the state, the child support may continue if the child is in college or still attending school. This also is very true if this provision existed when the court order was first passed. Contact your family lawyer and find out what laws are in your state regarding this issue.
The third most common question is “Is visitation declined if the child support is not paid?” This can also vary between states, but in most states this is treated as two different issues. Because visitation is so beneficial for the child, the visitation will still be allowed regardless of how behind the parent is on child support. If you refuse the parent his visitation rights this can be viewed as a breach of the court order and can be enforced in legal or criminal actions. The best way to help with this situation is to file a petition of court with your lawyer. In this document you may describe what is going on and request that the visitation is withheld until there is a review of the child support order. The only way to refuse visitation is when the court favors in your petition.