In Wisconsin, child support is more than a private agreement between parents. It is a court-ordered obligation with systems in place to track payments and address missed support.
If you find yourself in this situation, know that you have options when payments fall behind. Understanding how enforcement works is key to protecting your child’s best interests.
The role of a child support agency
In Wisconsin, parents often work with a child support agency to help manage and enforce child support obligations. These agencies can track payment history, calculate arrears and identify when support payments are behind. They also help initiate enforcement actions when needed.
Common enforcement options in Wisconsin
When a parent falls behind on child support in Wisconsin, the state uses different enforcement tools to help collect unpaid support and encourage compliance. The method used often depends on each family’s circumstances. In many cases, enforcement begins with less severe methods and may escalate to stronger actions if the arrears remain unpaid.
Wage garnishment
The most common enforcement method. The court orders the payer’s employer to deduct support directly from their paycheck.
Contempt of court proceedings
If a parent has the ability to pay but refuses, the court may find them in remedial contempt. The judge can order penalties to compel payment, including stayed or immediate jail time. The parent can often avoid or end incarceration by making a court-ordered purge payment.
License suspension
Wisconsin can suspend various licenses to incentivize parents into arranging a payment, including:
- Driver’s licenses
- Professional or occupational licenses
- Hunting and fishing licenses
In some cases, the parent can avoid suspension or have their license reinstated by entering into a payment plan or making partial payments toward the arrears.
What custodial parents should avoid doing
In Wisconsin, child support and physical placement (visitation) are separate legal issues. You cannot legally block visits because payments are missing.
Moreover, verbal agreements are not legally binding. It is better to have the court approve changes to support to be enforceable.
Enforcing responsible coparenting
If you are facing challenges with unpaid child support, enforcing the order is possible. A child support agency or family law attorney can help you review your options to help protect your child’s financial security.