The family courts take child support very seriously and if a parent fails to keep up on their payments, it can result in serious consequences.

Often, people do not realize how serious the courts can be, and how failing to make their court-ordered child support payments can affect everything from their ability to receive a tax refund to their ability to drive with a valid license.

Gone are the days where a parent can stop making child support payments and they can simply disappear. With today's technology, local child support agencies can usually find a parent by their Social Security number and by finding their bank accounts.

Some of the penalties for failing to pay child support, include:

• Passport denial
• Tax refund intercept
• Lottery winnings intercept
• Bank accounts can be garnished, including joint bank accounts
• Wages can be garnished
• Suspension or denial of a professional license
• The court issues a warrant for the parent's arrest
• The parent can be found in contempt of court
• A lien can be placed on the parent's property

What if I have a financial setback?

Financial setbacks are a normal part of life. If you are obligated to pay child support and you lose your job, or you are injured or become ill, then please be aware that your obligation to support your children does not automatically end because your life changed.

If something changes and you can't afford your payments, do not wait. Contact a family law attorney right away to petition the court for a downward modification of your child support payments.

Until the court changes your support obligation, you will be responsible for the full amount, even if you lose your job and have no way to pay.

For the court to change your support obligation, you will need to show that there has been a "significant change" in your circumstances. To learn more a child support modification, use our directory to find a lawyer near you!