Situations can arise for parents in Sarasota, and other cities, that make it difficult or impossible to fulfill their child support obligations. While parents in these cases may be able to obtain a child support modification to adjust for their altered circumstances, parents who are able to pay, but choose not to can face serious consequences and penalties, including possible jail time.
According to reports, authorities allege that one Florida father not only owes a significant amount in unpaid spousal and child support, but that during the time in which he was not making his court ordered payments, he privately purchased and developed real estate. It was not reported how much was spent on the property, but the man reportedly owes over $450,000 in Orange County, New York, and close to $160,000 in a separate case in Westchester County. No information was disclosed regarding how many children the man has fathered, or if he may owe support in other cases as well.
Due to the unpaid child support, the man is facing charges in both cases. He was arrested recently in Orange County, where he remains in jail on $25,000 bail. It is unknown to the public whether the man has provided any explanation for falling behind on his monthly payments.
Whether you are a parent who is owed child support, or you are unable to make your monthly payments, it may be worth your time to speak to an attorney about your situation. A lawyer can help you understand your options and determine the best course of action for your circumstances.
Source: WESH News, “Fla. Businessman held in NY for not paying $452 in child, spousal support,” Kurtiss Tomasovich, May 23, 2014