Enforcing a Child Support Order: What Can You Do?

Raising a child is no small feat, and expenses can add up quickly. Without a partner to help defer the costs for your child, your bills can become overwhelming. If you have gone through the process to secure child support, you may believe that you are past the hard part. Unfortunately, child support orders are not always followed.

If you are frustrated that you are not receiving the money designated in your child support order, there are some steps that you can take. While enforcing a child support order can be maddening at times, it is worth the time and effort you put in so that you can receive the support you – and your child – deserves.

Start by hiring an experienced attorney.
First and foremost, do not try to navigate this situation alone. Find an attorney who is experienced in child support law, and one who is able to give you the attention your specific situation needs. The team at Gandhi Selim Law is ready to come alongside you in order to assure that your child support order is honored and followed.

Get your records in order.
While keeping track of money you have received for your child can be annoying, it is imperative to get your records in order. If your payments are sent through the state of Illinois, you may be able to get a copy of everything that has been paid to you through the State Disbursement Unit.

Fill out appropriate paperwork.

Your attorney can advise you if filling out a Petition for a Rule to Show Cause or Notice of Motion is in your best interest. If it is, your attorney can guide you through this process and file the paperwork with your local court.

Consider withholding income.
While every situation is different, and your attorney can advise you regarding yours, it may be a wise decision to serve a Notice to Withhold Income for Support to the employer of the unpaying party.

If you are not sure where the unpaying party is working, start investigating a bit. Ask around to mutual friends and family, search a bit online; social media can often give you a good glimpse of where the person is living and working.

Attempting to enforce a child support order can be difficult to do alone. We would be honored to work with you to advocate for you and your family. Give us a call to set up a free consultation so that we can get you on the track to the financial support you need.