Las Vegas Child Support Enforcement Attorney
Child support is an important legal duty imposed on non-custodial parents to make sure children receive the financial support they need. It is not uncommon for non-custodial parents to default on their child support payments and get behind. This can create a lot of distress and frustration for not only the custodial parent, but for the child, too. If you are not receiving proper support, you do have legal options. Below, our Las Vegas child support enforcement attorney explains what these are.
Garnished Wages
One of the most common tools used to enforce child support in Las Vegas is wage garnishment. Wage garnishment occurs when a judge orders a certain amount to be deducted from the obligor’s paycheck. The amount is then sent directly to the custodial parent. Garnishment amounts vary depending on the income of the obligor, but it is typically a percentage of their overall income. Wage garnishment ensures that payments are made regularly, so it is a very effective form of enforcement.
Property Liens
Property liens are rarer in child support enforcement cases and are usually used as a last resort. When a judge orders a lien on the obligor’s property, they cannot transfer or sell their property until all child support arrears are paid in full. Liens can also be placed on other assets, such as a bank account.
Suspension of a Driver’s License
When a person falls into default with their child support payments, a judge may order the Department of Motor Vehicles to suspend the obligor’s driver’s license. This method is also very effective, as it has a significant impact on the obligor’s daily life. Like property liens, suspended driver’s licenses are also used as a last resort in child support enforcement cases.
Denial of Passports
When a person falls behind on child support payments and the amount of arrears is very high, they may not be able to obtain a passport. A family court can order the Department of State to deny an application for a new passport, or to deny a renewal. This will prevent the obligor from traveling abroad until they have completely caught up on child support payments.
Contempt of Court
Any time someone fails to comply with a court order, including when they do not pay the child support they were ordered to, they can be held in contempt of court. To use this enforcement method, you must file a motion of contempt with the court. If a judge determines the obligor is in contempt, the parent may be ordered to pay child support arrears or impose other penalties, such as high fines or even jail time.
Our Child Support Enforcement Attorney in Las Vegas Can Help You Through the Process
While enforcing a child support order is possible, the process is not always easy. At Ghandi Deeter Blackham Law Offices, our Las Vegas child support enforcement attorney can help you navigate the process and give you the best chance of receiving the payments you need. Call or text us now at 702-878-1115 or connect with us online to request a consultation and to learn more.
