Name: What Happens If Child Support Isn't Paid?
Uploaded: 2026-07-01T08:00:00-05:00
Duration: 4 min 54 s
Description: Melone Hatley, P.C. family law attorneys explain the consequences of unpaid child support, covering arrears, enforcement mechanisms including wage garnishment and tax refund interception, license suspensions, passport denial, contempt and potential jail time, why child support debt survives a child turning 18, options for parents owed support, and what to do if you have fallen behind on payments.

What happens if child support isn’t paid? The consequences can be serious for both parents involved.

In this video, our family law attorney explains:
✔️ What counts as unpaid child support (arrears)
✔️ How child support is enforced through wage garnishment, tax refund interception, and property liens
✔️ How unpaid support can affect your driver’s license, professional licenses, and passport
✔️ Whether you can go to jail for not paying child support
✔️ Why child support debt doesn’t simply go away—even after a child turns 18
✔️ What options are available if you’re owed child support
✔️ What to do if you’ve fallen behind and can’t afford your current payments

Whether you’re trying to collect child support or struggling to keep up with payments, taking action early can make a significant difference in your options and your future.

At Melone Hatley, P.C., we are Your Partner in Divorce®, helping families navigate child support, custody, divorce, and other family law matters with compassion and experience.

📞 Contact Melone Hatley, P.C. today to learn more about your legal options.

As a partner for our clients, we earn our REVIEWS

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