How Much Back Child Support is a Felony in Wisconsin?
When it comes to child support, Wisconsin takes the enforcement of payment very seriously. The state has implemented various measures to ensure that non-custodial parents (NCPs) make timely payments to support the well-being of their children. In some cases, failure to pay child support can lead to serious legal consequences, including felony charges.
What is Back Child Support?
Back child support refers to the amount of child support owed by a non-custodial parent (NCP) to the custodial parent or the state child support agency. This debt can accumulate over time if the NCP fails to make regular payments or make arrangements to pay off the debt.
How Much Back Child Support is a Felony in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, a felony charge for back child support can be triggered when an NCP accumulates $20,000 or more in back child support. This amount is based on the total amount of child support owed, including interest and penalties. $20,000 is a significant threshold, and NCPs should take immediate action to resolve their back child support issues to avoid facing felony charges.
Felony Consequences
If an NCP accumulates $20,000 or more in back child support, they can face serious legal consequences, including:
• Felony charges: The NCP can be charged with a felony, which can result in imprisonment for up to 3.5 years.
• Fines: The NCP may be required to pay significant fines, which can add to their back child support debt.
• Loss of driving privileges: The NCP may lose their driver’s license or have their driving privileges suspended.
• Difficulty finding employment: A felony conviction can make it challenging for the NCP to find employment or advance in their career.
• Damage to credit score: A felony conviction can negatively impact the NCP’s credit score.
What Triggers Felony Charges?
In Wisconsin, felony charges for back child support are typically triggered when an NCP:
• Fails to make payments: The NCP fails to make regular child support payments for an extended period.
• Accumulates large back child support debt: The NCP accumulates $20,000 or more in back child support, including interest and penalties.
• Has a prior felony conviction: The NCP has a prior felony conviction for failure to pay child support or other related charges.
How to Avoid Felony Charges
To avoid felony charges for back child support, NCPs should:
• Make timely payments: Pay child support on time to avoid accumulating back child support debt.
• Work with the child support agency: Communicate with the child support agency to negotiate a payment plan or settlement.
• Seek legal advice: Consult with a qualified attorney to understand their rights and options.
• Address underlying issues: Identify and address any underlying issues, such as unemployment or financial difficulties, that may be contributing to their failure to pay child support.
Table: Back Child Support Felony Threshold
| Amount of Back Child Support | Felony Threshold |
|---|---|
| $0 – $9,999 | Misdemeanor |
| $10,000 – $19,999 | Misdemeanor or Felony |
| $20,000 or more | Felony |
Conclusion
In Wisconsin, $20,000 or more in back child support can trigger felony charges, which can result in serious legal consequences. NCPs should take immediate action to resolve their back child support issues to avoid facing felony charges. By making timely payments, working with the child support agency, seeking legal advice, and addressing underlying issues, NCPs can avoid felony charges and maintain their rights and freedoms.
