A new Texas family code that went into effect on September 1st, 2016 could mean big trouble for parents who fall behind on paying child support payments. The new code, which falls under Texas Family Code chapter 232, gives the state attorney general's child support division the power to put a vehicle registration hold on parents required to pay child support if they do not make the necessary payments within 180 days.
The attorney general office has already had the ability to suspend and revoke driver's licenses, professional licenses, and certain recreational permits for parents who do not pay. Now, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will begin turning away parents who are behind on their child support payments in December.
Supporters of the rule say that it promotes accountability for parents, while others are fearful that the changes could serve to worsen the problem by further hindering unemployed parents' ability to find suitable employment. Since a person's mobility is so crucial to their ability to earn a living, this type of restriction could bring with it the unintended consequence of keeping parents from being able to pay, causing children to suffer.
While only time will tell the effects that the new changes will carry, changes to the Child Support system have historically come at a pretty steep cost. For example, a plan to upgrade the computer system that handles child support payments that started in 2007 that was initially supposed to cost just over $200 million has now more than doubled in cost and is more than two years behind schedule.
Behind on Child Support? Contact Springer Law Firm PLLC
If you are behind on child support payments, it is important you make an effort to work out an arrangement with the receiving parent to avoid being hit with these and other consequences. At Springer Law Firm PLLC, our Katy child support attorneys have more than 65 years of proven legal experience and can help you negotiate a fair solution.
To find out more about how we can assist you, call (281) 990-6025 or contact our office online today.