Child support payments are a legal obligation, not a choice. Sadly, some parents find it easy to ignore this duty, particularly when they live in another state. As a custodial parent, understanding your rights and legal options can make a world of difference in ensuring your child receives what they deserve.
Enforcing child support across state lines
If your former partner chooses to resist or ignore your efforts to secure payments, the Maryland Child Support Administration (CSA) or your local county child support enforcement agency can assist. These organizations dedicate themselves to helping families like yours by using various measures to enforce and retrieve child support payments.
They can help you locate the nonpaying parent, enforce an existing child support order and collect unpaid support.
Additionally, each state abides by the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), allowing them to collaborate and resolve child support cases where parents live apart.
If your ex lives out-of-state, the court in that jurisdiction may help enforce the child support order by:
- Withholding income
- Issuing a lien on properties or real estate
- Garnishing wages, federal and state tax refunds, and other financial windfalls
With these measures, ensuring your child’s well-being is possible regardless of where your ex resides. However, interstate enforcement can be slow and complicated. Enforcing a child support order can involve filing crucial documents, keeping track of deadlines and appearing at court hearings.
Consider seeking legal assistance
As a busy parent, it can feel too overwhelming to manage interstate enforcement, even with a child support agency’s help.
Having a lawyer to rely on and guide you can allow you to protect your rights and navigate the legal system smoothly. Their support can be especially valuable when facing additional challenges beyond collecting support payments.
Although the situation may be frustrating and stressful, keep in mind that doing what is best for your child is the most important thing.