Child support is an important obligation imposed on non-custodial parents to ensure that the children receive the financial support they need. However, it is common for some individuals to default on their child support payments, creating a lot of frustration and distress for the custodial parent and the child. Fortunately, in Nevada, there are various methods and tools available to enforce child support orders, ensuring that the child’s needs are met.
Wage Garnishment
This is a common tool used to enforce child support orders in Nevada. Wage garnishment is when the court orders a portion of the obligor’s paycheck to be withheld and paid directly to the custodial parent. The amount garnished varies depending on the obligor’s income, but it usually represents a percentage of the total income. Wage garnishment is an effective way to enforce child support orders as it ensures regular payments are made.
Property Lien
The court can also impose a lien on a property if child support payments are not made. A lien prevents the sale or transfer of the property until the child support arrears are fully paid. This is usually used as a last resort when other methods have failed. The court may also impose a lien on other assets, such as bank accounts.
Driver’s License Suspension
If an obligor falls behind on child support payments, the court may order the Department of Motor Vehicles to suspend their driver’s license. This is an effective method as it impacts the obligor’s daily life. It is usually used as a last resort, but it is an effective way to ensure that payments are made on time.
Passport Denial
If an obligor is seriously delinquent on child support payments, the court may also order the Department of State to deny their passport application or renewal until full payment is made. The obligor will not be able to travel internationally until payment is made in full.
Contempt of Court
If a parent is not complying with a court order, the other parent can file a motion for contempt of court. If the court finds the parent in contempt, they can order the parent to pay child support arrears or can impose other penalties, such as fines or jail time.
Enforcement of child support orders is a crucial issue in Nevada. If you are a custodial parent struggling with unfulfilled child support payments, it is important to know the various methods available to you to ensure compliance with the court order. Similarly, if you are an obligor finding it difficult to meet your child support obligation, it is important to be aware of the consequences of falling behind on payments. Contact our team of professionals at Richard P. Davies Law for assistance.
Get comprehensive insights from a seasoned Reno family law attorney in our Child Custody FAQs.