Asked in Family Law and Child Support

Q: The father of my children is not giving child support. He made sure that me and the kids are out of the country.

So it will be hard for me to collect child support. Do I have a case? Will there be a lawyer who will take my case? Please help me. I have two kids.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Craig Valentine
PREMIUM
Craig Valentine
Answered

A: I'm sorry to hear about the difficult situation you're facing. Not receiving child support can be challenging, especially when the other parent is not within the same country. While I can provide some general information, please keep in mind that I don’t know what jurisdiction you or your spouse are in. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, it's essential to consult with a family law attorney in your jurisdiction.

In cases where the parent responsible for child support is not fulfilling their obligation, you may have legal options to pursue child support. Here are some steps you can consider:

1. Consult with a Family Law Attorney: Reach out to a family law attorney who is familiar with child support laws in your country. They can help you understand your rights and legal options for pursuing child support, even if the other parent is not in the same country.

2. Determine Jurisdiction: Determine the appropriate jurisdiction to file for child support. This could be the country where the other parent resides or the country where the children currently reside.

3. International Treaties and Reciprocity: Some countries have international treaties or agreements regarding child support enforcement. These agreements aim to facilitate the enforcement of child support orders across borders. Your attorney can guide you on whether such treaties apply in your case and how to proceed.

4. Government Child Support Services: Some countries have government agencies that provide child support enforcement services. Check if your country has such services and explore their options.

5. Seek Legal Enforcement: If you obtain a child support order in the appropriate jurisdiction, you can seek enforcement through legal means, which may include wage garnishment, property seizure, or other actions.

Keep in mind that international child support cases can be complex, and the enforcement of child support orders across borders may vary depending on the countries involved. An experienced family law attorney can provide you with personalized advice and guidance based on the specific laws and regulations in your country and the country where the other parent is located.

If you are concerned about the cost of hiring an attorney, some organizations or legal aid clinics might provide free or low-cost legal services to those who cannot afford private representation. Consider reaching out to such resources to explore your options.

Remember, the legal process may take time, so it's essential to start the process as soon as possible to secure the support your children deserve.

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