How Much Back Child Support is a Felony in Arizona?
In Arizona, failing to pay child support can have serious consequences. While the amount of back child support required to trigger a felony charge may vary depending on the circumstances, it is essential to understand the laws and penalties associated with non-payment of child support in the state.
What is the Amount of Back Child Support Required for a Felony Charge in Arizona?
In Arizona, a felony charge for non-payment of child support is typically reserved for cases where the parent has accumulated a significant amount of back child support. The exact amount required to trigger a felony charge varies depending on the circumstances of the case, including the age of the child, the income of the parent, and the duration of the non-payment.
Felony Child Support Arrears Threshold
According to Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) 25-319, a parent who owes $25,000 or more in back child support can be charged with a felony. However, this threshold may be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
Factors Considered in Determining Felony Child Support Arrears Threshold
The court considers several factors when determining the felony child support arrears threshold, including:
• Age of the child: The older the child, the higher the threshold may be.
• Income of the parent: The higher the parent’s income, the higher the threshold may be.
• Duration of non-payment: The longer the parent has failed to pay child support, the higher the threshold may be.
Consequences of Failing to Pay Child Support in Arizona
Failing to pay child support in Arizona can have severe consequences, including:
• Felony charges: As mentioned earlier, a parent who owes $25,000 or more in back child support can be charged with a felony.
• Jail time: A felony conviction can result in up to 2.5 years in prison.
• Fines: A parent may be required to pay fines in addition to the back child support owed.
• Loss of driver’s license: A parent who fails to pay child support may have their driver’s license suspended.
• Tax refund intercept: The state may intercept a parent’s tax refund to collect back child support.
Other Consequences of Non-Payment of Child Support
In addition to the legal consequences, failing to pay child support can also have negative effects on a parent’s credit score, employment opportunities, and relationships with their child.
Table: Consequences of Failing to Pay Child Support in Arizona
| Consequence | Description |
|---|---|
| Felony charges | A parent who owes $25,000 or more in back child support can be charged with a felony. |
| Jail time | A felony conviction can result in up to 2.5 years in prison. |
| Fines | A parent may be required to pay fines in addition to the back child support owed. |
| Loss of driver’s license | A parent who fails to pay child support may have their driver’s license suspended. |
| Tax refund intercept | The state may intercept a parent’s tax refund to collect back child support. |
| Credit score impact | Failing to pay child support can negatively impact a parent’s credit score. |
| Employment opportunities | Non-payment of child support can limit a parent’s employment opportunities. |
| Relationship with child | Failing to pay child support can damage a parent’s relationship with their child. |
Conclusion
In Arizona, failing to pay child support can have severe consequences, including felony charges, jail time, fines, and loss of driver’s license. The amount of back child support required to trigger a felony charge varies depending on the circumstances of the case, but a parent who owes $25,000 or more in back child support is at risk of being charged with a felony. It is essential for parents to take their child support obligations seriously and make timely payments to avoid these consequences.
