As you know, divorce brings many changes, shifting immediate priorities for everyone. However, for parents, ensuring the well-being of their children is always a top concern.
Child support allows parents to fulfill their responsibilities by establishing financial contributions from the non-custodial parent. Understanding the process and its intricacies can alleviate anxieties, empowering co-parents to ensure their children’s needs never go unmet.
Understanding child support in Minnesota
Minnesota family courts issue child support orders to ensure children of divorce receive financial contributions from both parents. These orders outline the amount and frequency of payments the non-custodial parent must make. Courts use a complex formula that considers each parent’s gross income, allowable deductions, number of shared children, and other unique factors.
Adjustments to reflect life changes
Child support orders establish a baseline for support obligations, but judges know that life can and often does evolve. If a parent suffers a change in income due to job loss, medical crisis, or other unforeseen events, the court may modify existing support orders. Seeking a modification early can mitigate additional hardships for all parties.
Enforcement is a high priority
Family courts take a no-nonsense approach to child-related matters and expect parents to comply with support orders. Considering the weight courts give these matters, you can expect strong enforcement measures, including:
- Wage garnishment
- Asset seizure
- Professional license suspension
- Tax refund interception
- Passport holds
- Possible federal criminal proceedings
While this information is critical to both parents, it can be particularly invaluable to non-custodial parents struggling with child support. Instead of doing nothing, allowing the arrears to get out of control, speak with a legal representative to explore potential solutions.