Q: How long will I sit in jail if I can’t post bail for child support
A: In Illinois, if you're unable to post bail related to a child support matter, the length of time you might remain in jail can vary. Typically, non-payment of child support could lead to a finding of contempt of court. If the court determines you have the means to pay but are choosing not to, they might jail you as a coercive measure to encourage payment. This is not a punishment but a method to ensure compliance. The duration of incarceration for this reason is often relatively short, ranging from a few days to weeks. However, it's crucial to note that sitting in jail won't erase your child support debt, and the owed amount will continue to accrue.
Cheryl Powell agrees with this answer
A: The maximum sentence for contempt of court under these circumstances is generally 6 mos.
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