Divorce can be among the most challenging events in a person’s life. In addition to emotional upheaval, those going through divorce often worry about their financial future.
For some, child support and alimony provide a critical financial lifeline. But what happens when a party in Florida does not comply with a court order to pay child support and alimony?
Garnishment
The most common method for enforcing child support and alimony orders is wage garnishment. In essence, wage garnishment involves an employer withholding a portion of an employee’s wages for payment of child support or alimony.
In addition to garnishing wages, it is also possible to garnish funds in certain financial accounts or seize a non-paying party’s tax refund.
Contempt of court
Another option for enforcing support orders is a contempt of court motion. If you are able to prove the other party is willfully disobeying a court order to pay child support or alimony, the court can impose sanctions against the party, including potential jail time until the party complies with the court order.
License suspension
Florida law also provides for the suspension of driver’s licenses and professional licenses of those who fail to pay child support. As you might expect, suspension of any type of state license often forces a person to quickly satisfy past due support obligations.
Help with enforcement
There are a variety of other ways to enforce child support or alimony in Florida. Each situation is unique and an experienced attorney can help you identify the most effective means to enforce support orders.
Likewise, if you are facing support payments that you cannot afford, an attorney can advise you on the possibility of modifying support obligations. Otherwise, you could find yourself facing one or more of the methods available to enforce child support or alimony in Florida.
