Child Support and Its Enforcement in Missouri

Unlike other states where child support is a legal matter connected only with divorce or paternity, in Missouri a parent may petition the courts in regards to child support as a matter all on its own, independent of anything else. Courts may order either spouse or both spouses to provide child support for their child. In so doing, courts will consider many factors, such as the support needs of the child, the financial resources of the parents, the standard of living the child has enjoyed in the past, and more. Child support guidelines are covered under Missouri statutes, including "deviation" factors which may apply to the calculation of support payments.

Where a noncustodial parent earns more money than a custodial parent, he or she is generally required to pay more in support payments. Child support payments generally end when the child turns 18 but can be extended until the child reaches the age of 22 if still in high school. In the case where a parent becomes delinquent in providing financial support for his or her child, support payments can be enforced through the Missouri Department of Social Services, Family Support Division (FSD) which can withhold income with wage garnishments, intercept state and federal tax refunds, order the delinquent parent's employer to enroll the child in a health care plan, report deadbeat parents to credit bureaus, file liens on property, intercept lottery winnings, suspend licenses, and file civil contempt or criminal non-support charges through prosecuting attorneys' offices.

Kansas City Law Firm for Divorce and Family Issues

When a marriage breaks up, many issues will need to be decided by couples, such as how marital property and debts will be divided, how child custody and visitation will be arranged, whether spousal support will be needed, and how child support will be determined. If the parties cannot decide issues on their own, it will fall to the courts to make the decisions for them. Getting competent legal advice and guidance concerning divorce and all other family law issues is essential if you wish to understand and retain any kind of control over these matters. The Reynolds Law Firm, LLC, serving clients in and around Kansas City, has the kind of experience and dedication that can make the legal process less painful and confusing.

With more than 20 years of combined experience in divorce and family law, the firm offers proficient legal representation. Get your questions answered and learn more about the legal factors that will impact your divorce or family law case by contacting the firm for a free, initial consultation. You can also visit the firm's information center at www.kansascitydivorcefirm.com.