One of the most difficult things about getting divorced is not living with your children anymore. If your former spouse filed for divorce, the courts probably awarded him or her temporary custody at the time of filing. That leaves you with alternating weekends and one night a week to spend with your children. On top of that, you are now expected to pay child support, which may be incredibly frustrating.
Fighting for custody can be difficult, but with the right divorce and family law attorney, your chances of shared or primary custody are improved. Don’t try to fight this battle on your own and risk losing custody.
Depending on the circumstances, your attorney can provide advice about the best way to fight for shared or full custody of your children. Regardless of other circumstances, however, it is always in your best interest to pay your court-ordered child support in full and on time. No matter what extenuating circumstances exist, paying your child support is the best way to show you are willing and able to provide for your children. Failing to do so could have serious legal repercussions and could seriously harm your chances of getting shared or full custody of your children during the divorce.
Child support is a court order
When the courts determine child support, it is based on income and the number of children. The courts issue a temporary support order until the finalization of your divorce. Even if it is temporary, it is still a court order. You are obligated to comply with that order. In some cases, if you believe that the amount of support ordered is too high, your attorney may be able to help you request a modification. While you are waiting for that modification, however, you should make every attempt to pay support in full in the meantime. Doing so shows the courts that you will put the needs of your children before your own.
Failing to pay child support can harm your custody case. It shows a lack of respect for the authority of the courts and the rule of law. In some cases, if your former spouse requests enforcement assistance, you could face legal problems. Failing to pay child support could result in the courts taking action against you. The courts could garnish your wages, seize your tax return or even issue a bench warrant for your arrest. Paying your support on time not only protects you from enforcement action, it establishes your ability and willingness to provide financially for your children after the divorce.
Legal guidance will aid your fight for custody
Living without your children can be heartbreaking. The help of an experienced divorce and family law attorney improves your chances of a positive outcome. An attorney can provide advice throughout the divorce proceedings to ensure you don’t do anything that could reduce your chances of getting shared or primary custody of your children.
