Q: Can you be forced to pay child support without a custody order?
A: I am assuming from your question that there are no orders in place regarding custody, parenting or support. You cannot be "forced" to pay support until a child order is put into place. However, you may be under an obligation to pay support prior to entry of an order by the court. If your child is the result of a marriage, then support can be ordered back to the date a petition for dissolution or support is filed. If your child was born outside of marriage, then support can be ordered back to your child's birth. I recommend that you seek the advice of a qualified family law attorney to determine all your rights and obligations with respect to your child.
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