Like many parents in Michigan who pay child support, you may find it inconvenient or difficult to make the payments. You might also have reasons you feel are valid to not pay. However, you should consider the potential legal consequences of withholding child support, of which there are many.
According to the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, the penalties you may get for not paying child support include the following:
- Garnishment of wages, workers’ compensation benefits, Social Security payments and insurance claims
- Liens against your property
- Suspension of your driver’s license and professional licenses
- Denial of an application for a passport
- A warrant being issued for your arrest
In fact, you may even face felony charges for non-payment of child support.
What are the reasons you might not want to pay child support? You might have lost your job or you could be having trouble affording the payments. You may not agree with the custody and visitation order. You could disagree with your ex’s parenting decisions or worry for the safety of your children, and think that not paying will make a statement and prompt a change. However, the only change that voluntary non-payment is likely to inspire will be to your detriment.
If you are having trouble paying child support or wish to request a modification to your visitation or custody agreement, it is best to submit your request through the courts. Doing so is more likely to protect your rights as a parent. This information is not meant to replace the advice of a lawyer.