The loss of a job can cause significant difficulties, regardless of your situation. However, if you are a divorced parent who pays child support, a sudden and unexpected loss of income can not only affect you, but it may cause difficulties for your ex-spouse and your children. If you find yourself in a situation where you may be unable to meet your child support obligations, you will need to determine how to proceed. It is important to understand your options for seeking a modification of the amount you will be required to pay. By addressing this issue correctly, you can avoid legal issues such as penalties for non-payment of support, and you can put solutions in place that will allow you and your family to maintain financial stability.
Understanding Your Child Support Obligations in Illinois
A child support order put in place in family court must be followed. Even if you do not have the ability to pay the amount owed, you will be legally obligated to do so until the court issues a new order modifying your obligations. All amounts owed must be paid in full, and if you fall behind on payments, interest will be applied until what is owed is fully paid. Continued non-payment of child support could lead to other penalties. If the court determines that you have wilfully refused to pay the amounts owed, you could be held in contempt of court, which could lead to fines, the suspension of your driver's license, and even imprisonment. Because of these issues, it is crucial to take immediate action to address any issues that could affect your ability to meet your obligations.
Seeking a Modification of Child Support
If you lose your job or face financial hardship, you may petition the court to modify your child support order. Modification requests may be granted if you can demonstrate a significant change in circumstances. The loss of a job will usually qualify as a significant change, although the reason for your job loss may be considered. That is, if you were laid off because of downsizing, the court will be more likely to look favorably at your situation and help you determine how to proceed as you seek a new job. However, if you were fired for misconduct, or if you quit your job voluntarily, you may not be granted a modification, and your child support obligations may remain in place.
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