Do Both Parents Have a Legal Obligation to Support Their Child in Harrisburg?
When a married couple decides to separate or divorce, the court mandates that each parent provide financially for their child or children. If either parent fails to adhere to court-ordered child support, then the individual may be found in contempt of court. In this blog, our Harrisburg child support lawyers discuss the consequences of failing to pay child support and what steps you should take if you are having a difficult time affording support payments.
What is Child Support, and How is it Calculated?
Child support is designed to allow a noncustodial parent to contribute to a child’s upbringing, paying the amount they would have contributed financially if the child lived with them. Child support may be decided privately between both parties but is typically part of a court order. Support payments are made periodically, with many support orders stipulating monthly payments and some involving bi-weekly payments.
Support calculations are based on the number of children requiring support, each parent’s gross income, the monthly net income of both parents and the amount of time each parent spends with the child, among other factors. However, the parent’s support payment will be reduced if the regular support payment causes the parent’s monthly net income to fall below $1,063. The state’s basic support schedule accounts for combined monthly incomes up to $30,000.
Consequences of Not Paying Child Support in Harrisburg
If you fail to pay child support in Pennsylvania, you could be found in contempt of court. This could result in up to six months in jail and a potential fine of $500. Other punishments could include revocation of professional licensure (inhibiting you from working in your chosen field), driver’s license revocation, wage garnishment, a real property lien, and having your tax refund intercepted.
How a Harrisburg Child Support Lawyer Can Help
If you are having trouble affording support payments, a child support attorney can help you seek a modification to the original order. However, to be eligible, you must demonstrate a material change in circumstances. This would involve a reduction in income, medical expenses, or increased housing expenses (if you recently relocated).
To modify an existing order, you will need to file a petition with the county in which the original order was issued. Your request can be made online by visiting the Pennsylvania Child Support website. Once your application is reviewed, a Domestic Relations Officer will contact you to schedule a hearing. While it is possible to modify a court order without the help of an attorney, it is discouraged. By retaining the services of a Harrisburg child support attorney, you ensure that court forms are being filled out accurately, giving you the best chance of obtaining a modification.
Need a Modification to a Support Order? Contact Our Harrisburg Child Support Lawyers Today
We all strive to have our children’s financial needs taken care of, but that should not come at the expense of our own welfare. If paying child support has become a strain on your bank account, our legal team is here to help. Our Harrisburg child support attorneys can review your finances to request the original order be modified to an amount that is within your financial means. To arrange your consultation or to simply learn more, contact Purdy Law Office online or give us a call.