How Much Back Child Support Is A Felony In Florida?

November 14, 2023 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

It is considered a felony in Florida when the amount of back child support exceeds $5,000 or payments have not been made for more than two years. In Florida, failing to pay child support can result in penalties such as fines, suspension of driver’s license, seizure of property, and even jail time.

It is important for noncustodial parents to fulfill their financial responsibility to support their children, as the state takes the enforcement of child support laws seriously.

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How Does Back Child Support Become A Felony In Florida?

Back child support can become a felony in Florida when a noncustodial parent accumulates a significant amount of unpaid support. The specific amount varies, but once it reaches a certain threshold, the individual can face criminal charges and severe penalties.

It’s important for parents to fulfill their financial obligations to avoid legal consequences.

Understanding the circumstances under which back child support becomes a felony in Florida is essential for both custodial and noncustodial parents. Child support is a vital aspect of ensuring the well-being of a child, and the state of Florida takes it very seriously. If a noncustodial parent fails to meet their child support obligations, they may face serious legal consequences. In this section, we will explore what constitutes back child support in Florida, when it becomes a felony, and the factors considered in determining its severity.

What Constitutes Back Child Support In Florida

Back child support, also known as arrears, refers to the unpaid child support payments that accumulate over time. In Florida, child support payments are court-ordered and typically paid by the noncustodial parent to the custodial parent or the state if the custodial parent receives public assistance. Nonpayment of these court-ordered child support payments is a violation of the law.

The amount of back child support is determined by calculating the total amount owed based on the court-ordered child support payments that were not made. It includes both the principal amount and any interest that has accrued over time.

When Does Back Child Support Become A Felony?

Back child support becomes a felony in Florida when the unpaid amount reaches a certain threshold. In general, the threshold for felony classification varies depending on the total amount owed and the length of time the payments have been delinquent.

According to Florida law, if the total amount of overdue child support exceeds $5,000 and has remained unpaid for more than 90 days, it is considered a third-degree felony. A third-degree felony is punishable by imprisonment for up to five years and/or fines up to $5,000.

However, if the total amount of overdue child support exceeds $20,000 and has remained unpaid for more than a year or the payment obligation has not been met for two years or longer, it is considered a second-degree felony. A second-degree felony carries more severe consequences, including imprisonment for up to fifteen years and/or fines up to $10,000.

Factors Considered In Determining If Back Child Support Is A Felony

When determining whether back child support amounts to a felony in Florida, several factors are taken into consideration. These factors include the total amount owed, the length of time the payments have been delinquent, the circumstances of the noncustodial parent, and any previous history of nonpayment.

The court will also consider the efforts made by the noncustodial parent to fulfill their child support obligations, such as regular communication with the custodial parent, attempts to make partial payments, or evidence of financial hardship.

Additionally, if it can be proven that the noncustodial parent is intentionally avoiding their financial responsibility and has the means to make payments but refuses to do so, it may increase the likelihood of the back child support being classified as a felony.

Penalties For Failing To Pay Child Support In Florida

Failing to pay child support in Florida can result in serious penalties, including felony charges for a certain level of unpaid child support. It is essential to understand the consequences and obligations to avoid legal issues.

Every parent has a legal obligation to financially support their child, whether they are living together or separated. In Florida, failing to pay child support can result in serious consequences. Understanding the penalties for non-payment of child support is crucial to ensure compliance with the law and provide for your child’s needs.

Fines And Penalties For Non-payment Of Child Support

Florida imposes fines and penalties on parents who fail to meet their child support obligations. These penalties include:

• Income deduction order: The court can order the non-custodial parent’s employer to deduct child support directly from their wages. This ensures consistent and timely payments.
• Driver’s license suspension: Florida law allows the suspension of a parent’s driver’s license if they are delinquent in child support payments. This can significantly impact their daily life and ability to work.
• Passport denial: Non-payment of child support may result in the denial or revocation of a parent’s passport. This restriction prevents them from leaving the country until the outstanding child support is resolved.
• Seizure of assets: The court may seize the non-paying parent’s assets, such as bank accounts, to satisfy their child support debt.
• Contempt of court: If a parent willfully refuses to pay child support, they can be held in contempt of court. This can lead to additional fines, community service, or even jail time.

Potential Jail Time For Non-payment Of Child Support

In Florida, non-payment of child support can ultimately result in jail time. If a parent is found to be in contempt of court for willfully neglecting their child support obligations, the court may order them to serve time in jail. The length of the sentence depends on the specific circumstances of the case, including the amount of child support owed and the willingness of the parent to comply with their responsibilities.

It is important to note that while incarceration can temporarily relieve the non-custodial parent of their child support payments, the debt does not go away. Interest may continue to accrue, and they will still be responsible for paying the outstanding amount upon release.

Overall, the penalties for failing to pay child support in Florida are significant. It is crucial for parents to fulfill their financial obligations to support their children and avoid the legal and financial consequences associated with non-payment. If you are struggling to meet your child support obligations, it is recommended to seek legal advice to explore possible remedies and arrangements.

Child Support Enforcement In Florida

Florida takes child support enforcement seriously, and there are laws in place to ensure that parents fulfill their financial obligations towards their children. When it comes to back child support, Florida law states that when a parent owes at least $2,500 or has failed to pay support for at least one year, it is considered a felony.

Role Of The Florida Department Of Revenue In Enforcing Child Support

The Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) plays a significant role in enforcing child support obligations. They work closely with parents, custodial and noncustodial alike, to establish and enforce support orders. The DOR can assist in locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, and ensuring that child support payments are made correctly and on time.

Methods Used To Enforce Child Support Obligations

The DOR has several methods at its disposal to enforce child support obligations in Florida. These methods include:

• Income Withholding: The DOR can order the noncustodial parent’s employer to deduct the child support amount directly from their wages and send it to the DOR for disbursement.
• Liens and Seizure of Property: The DOR can place liens on the noncustodial parent’s property, such as real estate or vehicles, to collect overdue child support. In extreme cases, they may even seize the property to satisfy the owed support.
• License Suspension: The DOR can suspend the noncustodial parent’s driver’s license, professional licenses, or business licenses as a consequence of nonpayment. This serves as an incentive for the parent to fulfill their obligations.
• Passport Denial: If a noncustodial parent owes more than $2,500 in back child support, the DOR can request the denial or revocation of their passport. This restricts their ability to travel internationally.

Consequences For Failure To Comply With Child Support Orders

Failure to comply with child support orders in Florida can lead to various consequences, such as:

• Contempt of Court: The custodial parent can file a motion for contempt of court against the noncustodial parent, which can result in fines, probation, or even jail time.
• Wage Garnishment: The DOR can initiate wage garnishment, where a portion of the noncustodial parent’s wages is withheld to pay the child support.
• Property Seizure: As mentioned earlier, the DOR can place liens on property and seize it to satisfy the owed child support.
• Arrest Warrants: If a noncustodial parent continues to evade their child support obligations, an arrest warrant can be issued, leading to their arrest and potential incarceration.

It is crucial for parents to understand their responsibilities regarding child support and comply with court-ordered obligations. Nonpayment or avoidance of child support not only affects the well-being of the child but also exposes the noncustodial parent to severe legal consequences.

Deadbeat Dad Law In Florida

Florida’s Deadbeat Dad Law aims to hold noncustodial parents accountable for their financial responsibility towards their children. It is important to note that not everyone who falls behind on child support payments is considered a deadbeat dad. The law specifically targets those who intentionally evade their parental obligations.

Definition Of A Deadbeat Dad Under Florida Law

Florida’s Deadbeat Dad Law holds noncustodial parents to their responsibility
to financially support their kids. Although not everyone who falls behind on
child support payments is considered a deadbeat dad, the law only pertains to
those who intentionally evade parental responsibility. In Florida, a deadbeat
dad is a noncustodial parent who fails to make child support payments willfully
and continuously, leading to significant amounts of back child support.

Penalties For Evading Parental Responsibility In Florida

When a noncustodial parent continuously evades their obligation to pay child
support in Florida, severe penalties are enforced to ensure compliance with the
court-ordered obligations. The penalties include:

• Driver’s License Suspension
• Possible Jail Time
• Seizure of Assets
• Contempt of Court Charges

In some cases, noncustodial parents may be required to post a bond or comply
with a payment plan to avoid or resolve these penalties. It is important to note
that Florida treats the evasion of parental responsibility seriously and takes
strong measures to enforce the payment of child support.

Enforcement Actions Taken Against Deadbeat Dads

To ensure compliance with child support obligations in Florida, various
enforcement actions can be taken against deadbeat dads. Some of these actions
include:

• Income Withholding Orders
• Liens on Property or Assets
• Interception of Tax Refunds
• Passport Denial
• Reporting to Credit Bureaus
• Modification of Existing Orders

These enforcement actions aim to hold deadbeat dads accountable and encourage
responsible financial support of their children. By implementing these measures,
Florida seeks to protect the best interests of the children and ensure they
receive the financial support they deserve.

Canceling Child Support In Florida

Florida has strict laws regarding back child support, with a certain threshold before it becomes a felony. It is important to understand the penalties for missing child support payments in the state, as well as the process for enforcement and warrant issuance.

If you have questions about canceling child support in Florida, it is advisable to consult with legal professionals well-versed in child support law.

Can A Mother Cancel Child Support In Florida?

In Florida, child support is a legal obligation that both parents are required to fulfill. Unless specific circumstances arise, such as the child reaching adulthood or being adopted, child support cannot simply be canceled by the custodial parent, including the mother. The primary purpose of child support is to ensure that the child’s welfare and needs are adequately met. Therefore, canceling child support in Florida requires a proper legal process and meeting certain requirements.

Process And Requirements For Canceling Child Support In Florida

To cancel child support in Florida, certain conditions must be met by the custodial parent. Here are the steps involved in the process:

• Modify Child Support Order: The custodial parent, whether it be the mother or the father, must file a petition to modify the existing child support order. This modification can only be requested if there is a substantial change in circumstances that justifies the cancellation or reduction of child support.
• Substantial Change in Circumstances: The custodial parent must prove to the court that there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original order was established. Acceptable changes could include a change in the child’s financial needs, a change in the income or financial situation of the noncustodial parent, or changes in the custody arrangement.
• Filing a Petition: The custodial parent should file a petition to modify child support with the court in the county where the original support order was issued. This petition will outline the reasons for requesting the cancellation or reduction of child support and provide supporting evidence.
• Supporting Evidence: Along with the petition, the custodial parent must provide evidence supporting the claim of a substantial change in circumstances. This evidence can include financial documents, such as pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of expenses related to the child’s welfare.
• Court Evaluation: Upon receiving the petition, the court will evaluate the provided evidence and may hold a hearing to determine if the requested modification is justified. Both parents will have the opportunity to present their arguments and provide additional evidence.
• Court Decision: The court will ultimately make a decision based on the best interests of the child. If the court determines that a substantial change in circumstances has occurred, it may modify or terminate the existing child support order accordingly.

It is important to note that canceling child support in Florida can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is highly recommended for both parents, especially the custodial parent, to seek legal counsel to navigate through the legal requirements and ensure the best outcome for all parties involved.

Checking For Child Support Warrants In Florida

Worried about back child support in Florida? Learn if it becomes a felony and the penalties for missing payments. Find out when a warrant is issued and how to enforce child support. Check your case and avoid potential consequences with our guide.

If you are concerned about child support arrears and want to know if a warrant has been issued, checking for child support warrants in Florida is a crucial step. This helps you stay informed about your legal obligations and take the necessary actions to prevent any serious consequences.

How To Perform A Child Support Warrant Check In Florida

To perform a child support warrant check in Florida, you can follow these steps:

• Contact the Florida Department of Revenue (DOR): The DOR is responsible for child support enforcement in Florida. Call their customer service helpline at 1-800-622-KIDS (5437) or visit their website to request information regarding any warrants or enforcement actions against you.
• Provide required information: When contacting DOR, be prepared to provide your full name, Social Security number, and case number. These details will help them identify your case and provide accurate information regarding any warrants.
• Visit the Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC) website: The FCIC website allows you to search for active arrest warrants. While child support warrants are civil warrants and not criminal, they may still show up on the FCIC website. Visit their website and follow the instructions to perform your search.
• Consult with a family law attorney: If you are facing difficulties locating information or need professional guidance, consulting with a family law attorney experienced in child support matters can be beneficial. They can review your case, provide legal advice, and assist you in navigating the process.

What Happens If A Warrant Is Issued For Child Support Arrears

If a warrant is issued for child support arrears in Florida, you may face serious consequences. Here are some potential outcomes:

• Arrest: The issuance of a child support warrant may lead to your arrest. Law enforcement agencies can take action to locate and apprehend you to ensure compliance with court-ordered child support payments.
• Driver’s license suspension: Failure to pay child support can result in the suspension of your driver’s license in Florida. This can impact your ability to commute or travel, making it important to address your child support obligations promptly.
• Passport denial: If you have a significant amount of child support arrears, your passport application or renewal may be denied. This can restrict your ability to travel internationally.
• Income withholding: To enforce child support payments, the court can order income withholding, where a portion of your wages is automatically deducted to satisfy the arrears. This ensures a consistent flow of support for the child.
• Property liens and bank account garnishment: In extreme cases, the court may impose property liens or garnish your bank accounts to ensure the collection of past-due child support.

By understanding the potential consequences of a child support warrant, you can take proactive measures to address your obligations and prevent these serious outcomes. It is important to seek legal advice and work towards resolving your child support arrears as soon as possible.

Retroactive Child Support In Florida

Retroactive child support refers to the child support payments that are owed for a period of time before a child support order is established. It is important to understand the definition, calculation, circumstances, and enforcement responsibilities related to retroactive child support in Florida.

Definition And Calculation Of Retroactive Child Support

Retroactive child support can be calculated based on the Florida Child Support Guidelines and the incomes of both parents during the period in question. The court takes into account the number of children involved, the parents’ incomes, and any other relevant factors to determine the amount of retroactive child support owed.

Circumstances In Which Retroactive Child Support May Be Awarded

There are various circumstances in which retroactive child support may be awarded in Florida. These include:

• If the parents were living apart and not financially supporting the child during the time before a child support order was established.
• If the parent responsible for paying child support intentionally avoided their financial obligations.
• If the parent responsible for paying child support had a substantial increase in income during the period in question.
• If the court determines that retroactive child support is in the best interest of the child.

Enforcement Responsibilities For Retroactive Child Support

The enforcement of retroactive child support follows the same guidelines as regular child support payments. The parent owed retroactive child support may need to file a motion to enforce the payment and provide evidence of the owed amount. The court may then take action to enforce the payment, which can include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, suspension of licenses, and other legal measures.

Retroactive child support in Florida involves being aware of the definition, calculation, circumstances in which it may be awarded, and enforcement responsibilities. If you believe you are owed retroactive child support, it is advisable to consult with a family law attorney to navigate the legal process.

How To Enforce Child Support In Florida

Florida has strict laws regarding child support payments, and falling behind can have serious consequences. While there is no specific amount of back child support that automatically becomes a felony, non-payment can lead to penalties such as suspension of driver’s licenses, seizure of property, and even imprisonment.

It is important to understand and follow the guidelines for enforcing child support in Florida to avoid these legal ramifications.

Enforcing child support payments is crucial in ensuring the well-being of children and supporting custodial parents. In Florida, there are legal remedies available to enforce child support orders when noncustodial parents fail to meet their financial obligations. If you are facing difficulties in receiving child support payments, it’s important to understand the steps you can take to enforce child support in Florida.

Filing A Petition For Enforcement Of Child Support

If the noncustodial parent has fallen behind on child support payments, the custodial parent can file a petition for enforcement of child support with the court. This legal document notifies the court that the noncustodial parent is not complying with the child support order. It is essential to provide evidence of the missed payments and any other relevant information to support your case.

Additionally, it is advisable to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights and the best interests of your child are protected.

Legal Remedies Available For Enforcing Child Support In Florida

Florida law offers various legal remedies to enforce child support payments. Some of the common legal remedies include:

• Wage Garnishment: The court can order the noncustodial parent’s employer to withhold child support payments directly from their wages.
• Income Withholding Order: This order allows the court to collect child support payments directly from the noncustodial parent’s income source, such as unemployment benefits or retirement benefits.
• Liens and Seizure of Assets: In certain cases, the court may place liens on the noncustodial parent’s property or seize their assets to satisfy past-due child support payments.
• Driver’s License Suspension: Florida law enables the suspension of a noncustodial parent’s driver’s license for failure to pay child support.
• Passport Denial: If the noncustodial parent owes a significant amount of child support, the U.S. Department of State may deny or revoke their passport.

These legal remedies play a crucial role in motivating noncustodial parents to meet their child support obligations. It is essential to consult with a family law attorney to understand which remedy may be suitable for your situation.

Seeking Assistance From The Florida Department Of Revenue

The Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) also plays a significant role in enforcing child support payments. The DOR can assist custodial parents by:

• Locating the noncustodial parent: The DOR has access to various databases and resources to help locate noncustodial parents who may be evading their child support obligations.
• Establishing paternity: If paternity has not been established, the DOR can assist in establishing legal parentage, which is essential for enforcing child support orders.
• Modifying child support orders: If there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as an increase or decrease in income, the DOR can help custodial parents request a modification of the child support order.
• Enforcing child support orders: The DOR has the authority to take administrative actions to enforce child support orders, including wage garnishment and intercepting tax refunds.

It is important to reach out to the Florida Department of Revenue or consult with a family law attorney to understand how they can assist you in enforcing child support payments.

Determining When Child Support Is Considered Late In Florida

Determining when child support is considered late in Florida is important for both custodial and noncustodial parents. Noncustodial parents should be aware that falling behind on child support payments can have significant consequences. In Florida, the amount of back child support that qualifies as a felony can vary depending on the circumstances, making it crucial to understand the penalties for missing child support payments.

Definition Of Late Child Support Payments In Florida

When it comes to determining when child support is considered late in Florida, it’s important to understand the state’s guidelines. In Florida, child support payments are considered late if they are not received by the due date specified in the court order or the separation agreement. According to Florida law, child support payments are typically due on the first day of each month.

Consequences For Late Child Support Payments

In Florida, there are serious consequences for individuals who fail to make child support payments on time. When child support payments are late, the following consequences may apply:

• Accumulated Interest: If child support payments are not made on time, the custodial parent may be entitled to interest on the overdue payments.
• Wage Garnishment: The court may order the noncustodial parent’s wages to be garnished in order to satisfy the child support arrears.
• Driver’s License Suspension: In cases where child support payments are severely delinquent, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has the authority to suspend the noncustodial parent’s driver’s license.
• Passport Denial: If child support payments are significantly overdue, the noncustodial parent’s passport may be denied or revoked.
• Contempt of Court: If a noncustodial parent consistently fails to make child support payments, they may be held in contempt of court, which can result in fines, community service, or even jail time.

Recourse Available To The Custodial Parent For Late Child Support

If child support payments are late, the custodial parent has several options for seeking recourse:

• Informal Reminder: The custodial parent may choose to initially remind the noncustodial parent about the late payments in a polite and non-confrontational manner.
• Written Notice: If informal reminders do not yield results, the custodial parent can send a written notice requesting immediate payment of the overdue child support.
• Enforcement Agency Assistance: The custodial parent can seek assistance from the Florida Department of Revenue’s Child Support Enforcement Program, which has the authority to take actions such as income withholding, driver’s license suspension, and passport denial.
• Seek Legal Action: In cases where all other options have been exhausted, the custodial parent may need to seek legal action by filing a motion for contempt of court or enforcement of the child support order.

It is important for both custodial and noncustodial parents to understand their rights and responsibilities when it comes to child support in Florida. By adhering to the court-ordered child support payments, noncustodial parents can avoid the serious consequences associated with late child support payments.

Frequently Asked Questions On How Much Back Child Support Is A Felony In Florida?

How Far Behind Can You Be In Child Support In Florida?

In Florida, the question of how far behind you can be in child support is subjective. There is no specific limit mentioned in the law. However, failure to pay child support can result in penalties such as suspension of driver’s license, interception of tax refunds, and even imprisonment.

It is crucial to stay current with child support payments to avoid legal consequences.

How Far Behind In Child Support Before A Warrant Is Issued In Fl?

In Florida, a warrant for child support can be issued if an individual falls behind a certain amount, typically after missing several payments.

How Many Child Support Payments Can Be Missed Before Jail In Florida?

In Florida, there is no specific number of missed child support payments that will result in jail time. The court can issue a warrant for arrest if the noncustodial parent fails to make child support payments as ordered. The penalties for nonpayment can include fines, suspension of driver’s license or professional license, interception of tax refunds, and even imprisonment.

It is important to fulfill the financial responsibility of child support to avoid these consequences.

What Is The Deadbeat Dad Law In Florida?

Florida’s Deadbeat Dad Law holds noncustodial parents accountable for financially supporting their children. It applies to those who intentionally evade parental responsibility. Falling behind on child support payments doesn’t automatically make someone a deadbeat dad.

How Much Back Child Support Is Considered A Felony In Florida?

Back child support is considered a felony in Florida when the amount owed exceeds $5,000 or payments have not been made for more than 2 years.

What Are The Penalties For Missing Child Support Payments In Florida?

The penalties for missing child support payments in Florida can include fines, suspension of driver’s license or professional licenses, interception of tax refunds, placing liens on property, and even imprisonment.

Conclusion

In Florida, the consequences for failing to pay child support can be severe. Although the specific amount that classifies as felony back child support varies, it is crucial to understand that Florida takes this issue seriously. Noncustodial parents who intentionally evade their responsibilities may be subject to the Deadbeat Dad Law, which holds them accountable for financially supporting their children.

To avoid facing penalties, it is essential to stay up-to-date on child support payments and seek legal assistance if needed. Remember, fulfilling your parental responsibilities is not only a legal obligation but also ensures the well-being of your children.