For two parents raising a child separately from one another, child support payments can provide additional financial assistance to the primary parent. While some individuals may feel court-ordered child support is unfair, it is a normal facet of life. If you are paying child support or might owe it in the future, it is vital to understand your legal responsibilities. You may find yourself wondering about how unemployment may impact child support payments, how child support amounts are determined, and other frequently asked questions that cannot typically be answered without a consultation with an experienced family law attorney. As your experienced family law attorney based out of Baltimore, Albers & Associates legal team can assist you with all of your questions related to child support in Baltimore.
Do I Have to Pay Child Support in Baltimore if I’m Unemployed?
Even if you are unemployed and cannot afford to pay child support, you are still legally obligated to make a court-ordered payment for child support. If you haven’t faced court yet and you’re wondering whether you may owe child support in the future, you should know that the court will calculate your earning capacity. After your earning capacity has been calculated, you will be ordered to pay child support based upon your income potential and past work history. This is particularly important for individuals who attempt to avoid paying child support in Baltimore by quitting their job. However, even if you quit your job, your prior work history and past income can influence how much money you may owe in future child support payments.
Do I Still Have to Pay If I Can’t Afford Child Support?
After you’ve been legally ordered to make child support payments, you are required by law to pay child support. If you willingly choose to avoid paying child support, you could find yourself in contempt of court if your former spouse decides to file against you. In these instances, child support will be legally enforced. Your child support can be garnished from your wages, taxes, and other mechanisms to pay any outstanding amounts you owe. If you cannot afford to pay court-ordered child support, it’s essential to consult with your attorney to inquire about your legal options.
Can I Withhold Child Support Payments If I Believe My Funds Are Being Misused?
It’s essential not to attempt to take legal matters into your hands. Even if you believe that your court-ordered child support payment is being used to pay for expenses you disapprove of, you are not within your legal right to withhold child support payments. If you opt to withhold court-ordered child support, you face legal repercussions that can have a longstanding impact on your finances and future work opportunities. Before ever ceasing to make a court-ordered child support payment, it’s essential to communicate with your attorney to understand the legal ramifications of doing so. Contact the legal team at Albers & Associates today for a consultation with an experienced family law attorney.
Albers & Associates is Your Experienced Baltimore Child Support Attorney
Albers & Associates is your highly experienced Baltimore child support attorney. We can advocate on your behalf for the best possible resolution for your case. Our highly skilled legal team can expertly navigate your case and work with you during this difficult time. Contact us today for a consultation. You can also give us a call at our downtown Baltimore, MD office (410) 505-0671 or Dundalk, MD office (410) 505-7831.