How Much Back Child Support is a Felony in Louisiana?
When it comes to child support, Louisiana takes the enforcement of payments very seriously. In fact, the state has strict laws in place to ensure that parents pay their fair share of child support. But what exactly constitutes a felony when it comes to back child support in Louisiana? In this article, we’ll break down the laws and answer this question.
Is Back Child Support a Felony in Louisiana?
Yes, back child support can be a felony in Louisiana. According to La. R.S. 9:314, a parent who accumulates $10,000 or more in back child support can be charged with a felony. This amount is cumulative, meaning it’s the total amount owed, not the amount owed each month.
What is Considered Back Child Support?
Back child support refers to the amount of child support that a parent is behind on paying. This can include:
• Unpaid monthly installments: If a parent fails to make their scheduled child support payments, it’s considered back child support.
• Arrears: If a parent owes a lump sum payment for child support, this is also considered back child support.
• Default: If a parent is in default on their child support payments, this can also lead to back child support.
Consequences of Not Paying Child Support
Not paying child support can have serious consequences for parents who are behind. Some of these consequences include:
• Warrant: A warrant can be issued for the parent’s arrest if they fail to pay child support.
• Fines: The parent may be required to pay fines in addition to the back child support amount.
• Jail Time: In some cases, the parent may face jail time for non-compliance with child support orders.
• Driver’s License Suspension: The parent’s driver’s license can be suspended if they’re behind on child support.
• Passport Denial: The parent may be denied a passport if they’re behind on child support.
How Back Child Support is Calculated
Back child support is calculated by adding up the total amount of child support owed, including any late fees and interest. Here’s an example:
| Amount Owed | Late Fees | Interest | Total Amount Owed |
|---|---|---|---|
| $5,000 | $500 | $200 | $5,700 |
In this example, the parent owes $5,000 in back child support, plus $500 in late fees and $200 in interest. The total amount owed is $5,700.
How Can I Avoid Back Child Support?
To avoid back child support, parents can take the following steps:
• Make timely payments: Pay child support on time, every time, to avoid accumulating back support.
• Communicate with the other parent: If you’re having trouble making payments, communicate with the other parent to discuss a payment plan.
• Seek assistance: If you’re struggling to make payments, seek assistance from a non-profit organization or legal aid society.
• Review your child support order: Review your child support order to ensure it’s fair and reasonable.
Conclusion
Back child support can be a serious offense in Louisiana, with felony charges possible if the amount owed reaches $10,000 or more. To avoid back child support, parents should make timely payments, communicate with the other parent, seek assistance when needed, and review their child support order. If you’re struggling with back child support, it’s important to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. Remember, child support is crucial for the well-being and care of children, and it’s essential to prioritize these payments.
