Dad's Behind Bars: Who's Picking Up the Tab?
So, your baby daddy decided to take a vacation to the state-funded motel known as prison. Fancy fella. Now, you're probably wondering, "Who's gonna foot the bill for Little Timmy's macaroni and cheese and juice boxes?" Let's dive into this delightful topic: Child Support and Incarcerated Dads.
The Old Rules: Dad's Gotta Pay, Even From the Big House
Traditionally, being locked up didn't give you a free pass from child support. It was like, "Just because you're busy learning how to make shivs, doesn't mean you get to skip out on your parental duties." Tough luck, right? But fear not, single parents, times have changed.
The New Sheriff in Town: California Law to the Rescue
California, ever the trendsetter, decided to shake things up. As of September 27, 2022, there's a new rule in town: If Daddy Dearest is behind bars for more than 90 days straight, the child support clock stops ticking. It's like hitting the snooze button on your financial obligations.
But wait, there's more! This doesn't mean he gets a permanent vacation from his parental responsibilities. Once he's back on the outside, the child support train starts rolling again, and any missed payments will come back to haunt him.
So, What Does This Mean for You?
Let's break it down:
- If your ex has been locked up for less than 90 days: Tough luck, champ. Child support keeps on chugging.
- If your ex has been locked up for more than 90 days: Congrats! You get a temporary break from child support. But remember, this is just a pause, not a permanent vacation.
Important note: This only applies to California. If you live in another state, check your local laws. Every place has its own rules about child support and incarceration.
How to Navigate This Mess
Now, let's tackle some burning questions you might have:
How to know if child support stops automatically?
- Check the date your ex was incarcerated. If it's been more than 90 days, you might be eligible for a pause.
How to apply for a child support pause?
- Contact your local child support agency. They can guide you through the process.
How to restart child support after release?
- Once your ex is released, inform the child support agency. They will reinstate the order.
How to deal with child support arrears?
- If your ex has accumulated arrears, you might be able to get help collecting them. Contact your local child support agency for assistance.
How to find a good lawyer for child support matters?
- Ask for referrals from friends, family, or other parents going through similar situations. You can also search online for attorneys specializing in family law.
Remember, navigating the world of child support can be a rollercoaster. But with the right information and a little humor, you can conquer it!
Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney for advice
