When a court orders child support or alimony in Florida, compliance is mandatory. Failure to pay support can create serious financial hardship and may result in significant legal consequences for the non-paying party.
Support enforcement is governed by Chapter 61, Florida Statutes, and Florida courts have broad authority to compel compliance.
The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. represents clients in support enforcement matters throughout Southwest Florida and the greater Tampa Bay region, including but not limited to, Sarasota County, Manatee County, Charlotte County, DeSoto County, Lee County, Hillsborough County, and Pinellas County. Every consultation is conducted directly with a licensed Divorce and Matrimonial Law Attorney, not a salesperson, not a case manager, and not an intake team.
Florida courts may enforce:
Court-ordered support obligations are enforceable until modified by the court.
Florida courts may use several enforcement tools, including:
In serious cases, incarceration may be imposed if the court finds willful non-payment and present ability to pay.
To establish civil contempt for unpaid support, the court must find:
The court may set purge amounts to compel compliance.
A parent or former spouse defending against enforcement may assert:
If financial circumstances have changed, filing for modification is critical.
Unpaid support accrues as a judgment and may include statutory interest.
Arrearages do not disappear simply because time has passed.
Can I go to jail for unpaid child support in Florida?
Yes, if the court finds willful nonpayment and present ability to comply.
Can support be reduced retroactively?
Generally, modification is effective from the date the petition is filed, not before.
Does bankruptcy eliminate child support debt?
No. Child support and alimony are generally non-dischargeable.
If you are seeking to collect unpaid support or defending against enforcement proceedings, experienced legal representation can protect your financial interests and ensure compliance with Florida law.
Contact The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. to schedule a confidential consultation regarding enforcement of support in Florida.
180 North Stetson Avenue, Suite 3500
Chicago, Illinois 60601
1201 6th Ave W STE 100 Unit #677 Bradenton, Florida 34205
