Raising children is an expensive venture. For the single custodial parent, every dollar can be important. In most instances, the Texas parent expects to receive assistance in the form of child support; however, there are times when this becomes an issue. Unfortunately, not all parents recognize the importance of doing their part to take care of their children.
One parent attracting headlines recently in this area is hip hop artist Scarface. In 2011, paternity was established, and he was ordered to pay less than $150 per month in child support plus an additional $30 per month to assist with medical expenses for one of his children. According to recent reports, he is now owes over $6,000 in support for this child. Scarface has faced previous child support claims, and he even has spent time in jail for failure to pay.
In many cases, the custodial parent depends upon child support to be able to provide basic necessities for the child. Even if this is not the case, these funds are there to provide the little extras that children want and need. The law holds that both parents are responsible for providing for their children.
When a parent is ordered to pay child support and fails to do so, it can cause a serious problem for the custodial parent and child. Texas parents who are owed child support but are not receiving it do have options. While discussing the matter with the non-custodial parent may appear to be the easiest solution, this is not always the appropriate option. There are times when the appropriate option is to take legal action.