Legal Actions for Unpaid Child Support in Florida

There are serious legal ramifications for late payments or unpaid support.

Federal and Florida child support laws allow a court to order the seizure of assets, including:

• Bank accounts
• Wages, through garnishment at work
• Unemployment benefits
• Workers' compensation benefits
• IRS tax refunds
• Insurance settlements
• Lottery winnings

The court may also place a lien on property such as houses, cars, and boats, so the owner cannot sell without settling delinquent child support. The court can suspend various licenses—drivers, professional practice, fishing, and hunting—making it impossible for an obligor to work or engage in certain activities. Finally, the court may find a delinquent obligor in contempt and order incarceration until the obligation is paid. Criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment from six months to two years, are also possible under the federal Deadbeat Parents Punishment Act of 1998.

Contact us now to schedule a consultation with a Tampa Bay child support attorney!

How Does the Termination of Parental Rights Affect Child Support?

When a court terminates parental rights, the parent no longer has to pay child support—though that parent is still liable for back support. However, parents cannot simply opt out of their obligations. If a custodial parent remarries and the new spouse wants to adopt the child, the custodial parent must get the other parent to renounce parental rights or get a court order terminating parental rights and responsibilities.

Circumstances where the court might terminate rights over the parent's objection include:

• Abuse of the child or a sibling
• Neglect
• Abandonment
• Felony conviction
• Incarceration
• Sexual abuse
• Alcohol abuse
• Drug addiction
• Murder or manslaughter of a sibling or child

Can a Parent Lose Time-Sharing Rights While Paying Child Support?

Under Florida statutes, the custodial parent cannot deny time-sharing and visitation rights to the non-custodial parent based on non-payment of child support. Also, when the custodial parent refuses to make the children available, the non-custodial parent cannot withhold child support payments. Parents who lose time-sharing rights due to conduct deemed detrimental to the child must still meet their support obligations.

Child Support Modifications: What You Need to Know

It's important to understand that child support orders are not set in stone. As circumstances change, such as a change in income or the needs of the child, it may be necessary to modify the child support agreement. Our experienced child support lawyers can help you navigate the process of seeking a modification to ensure that the support arrangement reflects the current situation.

Common reasons for seeking a child support modification include:

• Change in income for either parent
• Change in the child's needs or expenses
• Change in custody or time-sharing arrangements
• Medical or educational expenses not covered in the original agreement

Whether you need to seek a modification or defend against one, our legal team can provide the guidance and representation you need to protect your rights and the best interests of your child.

Get Professional Help from a Child Support Lawyer in Tampa Bay

Our team at K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. advises against any misguided attempts at "self-help." It's important to have a qualified legal professional on your side. Consult our qualified child support attorney in Tampa Bay, and receive guidance on how to resolve your visitation and support issues professionally.

For reliable guidance on child support law from a board-certified attorney, contact our office and set up a consultation. Our team has been serving Florida families for 59 combined years.

At the Law Offices of K. Dean Kantaras, P.A., we take the time to explain your rights and take affirmative steps to assert them. Contact us now!