In Virginia, both parents have a legal obligation to support their children. This responsibility is taken seriously and is reflected in the child support system. Knowing your rights if you are receiving child support is essential.
At Tavss Fletcher, we recognize the significance of these rights and are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of child support. Our experienced Norfolk family law attorneys at Tavss Fletcher are here to answer your questions and ensure your legal rights are upheld throughout the process.
Your Rights When Receiving Child Support in Norfolk
In our commonwealth, you have specific legal rights when paid child support by the noncustodial parent. Important ones that you need to know about include the following.
Timely Payments
One of your fundamental rights when receiving child support in Virginia is the right to timely payments. The judge enters a child support order, and the paying parent is obligated to adhere to its terms. This includes making payments on time, as specified in the court order.
Income Withholding
If the paying parent is working, their child support payments are automatically deducted from their wages so that you receive consistent payments.
Child Support Order Enforcement
When the paying parent fails to meet their child support obligations, you have the right to enforce the court order. There are various methods your skilled family law attorney can pursue on your behalf to ensure compliance.
Back Child Support Payments
Your rights also extend to seeking back child support payments, which the paying parent has missed in the past. They are still responsible for fulfilling these obligations if they get behind on payments. You have the right to work with the appropriate authorities to collect these unpaid amounts and secure the financial support your child deserves.
Duration of Child Support Payments in Virginia
Understanding how long child support must be paid in Virginia is essential for planning your child's future. In Virginia, child support typically must be paid until the child is 18 or graduates from high school, whichever happens later. However, there are exceptions to this general rule.
Child in High School
A parent can be required to pay child support obligations until the child turns 19 if the child is still in high school, does not support themselves, and lives with the custodial parent.
Children With Disabilities
If the child has a physical or mental disability that makes it impossible for them to support themselves, the court may order the paying parent to continue providing child support even beyond the age of 18.
Emancipation
Child support obligations may be terminated if the child becomes emancipated, meaning they are legally recognized as an adult before reaching 18 years old.