On May 7, the U.S. State Department issued a notice that they will begin revoking the passports of Americans who owe “significant child support debt”. The notice states that it will not allow people who have more than $2,500.00 in unpaid child support to be issued a passport and that it may revoke their valid passport. For many people, this comes as a surprise. Child support enforcement is not limited to wage garnishments or tax refund interceptions. In some cases, enforcement can impact travel, licenses, credit, and other important aspects of daily life. 

Once a support order is issued by the court, both parties are expected to comply with its terms until the order is modified. When support is not being paid consistently, the receiving parent has legal options available to enforce the order, including filing a Motion for Contempt. 

A Motion for Contempt asks the court to determine whether a party has failed to comply with a prior court order. If the court finds a violation, potential consequences can include: payment plan for arrears, wage withholding order, attorney’s fees, license suspensions, in serious cases possible incarceration, and now passport revocation.  

At Lardiere McNair & Stonebrook we regularly assist clients on both sides of child support enforcement matters. Sometimes a parent has gone months or years without receiving ordered child support and needs help enforcing the order and securing payment. Other times, a parent has fallen behind due to a job loss, medical issues, or changing financial circumstances and needs to explore options for getting the support amount modified. One of the most important things you can do is get ahead of the issue. Child support arrears continue to accumulate, and enforcement remedies can become increasingly serious over time. 

Whether you are owed child support or are struggling to keep up with payments, it is important to address the issue early. Enforcement actions can grow quickly, and as recent federal announcements show, the consequences can extend beyond the courtroom. If you have questions about child support enforcement, arrears, contempt proceedings, or getting a child support order modified, our office can help you understand the process and your options. 

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