Charleston, WV asked in Family Law and Child Support for Virginia

Q: My son's father still owes about $14,000 ( mostly interest ) in child support arrears. Our son is 20.

He is now claiming medical issues and has petitioned the court for modification. Although he is employed with a 1099 position.

Can he actually be forgiven of his arrears?

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A: In Virginia, child support arrears typically continue to be owed until they are paid off in full, even after the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18). Interest may continue to accrue on unpaid arrears as well. The court may order modifications to child support orders based on substantial changes in circumstances, such as a significant change in income or medical issues. However, modifications to the support order do not usually forgive or cancel existing arrears owed.

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