If you are divorcing somebody in the military, you might wonder if you are entitled to child support in the same way that other people do. When you go through a divorce, can you request child support? What happens when your ex-spouse is difficult to find? The truth is that you have options, and you can take the following steps today to secure financial support for your child.
1. Members of the Military Must Provide for Dependents
A service member must provide financial support for dependents, regardless of if they have custody of their children. If you have just gone through a divorce or are currently going through a divorce, you may pursue a child support case against your spouse or ex-spouse.
2. You Must Serve Papers
To divorce and request child support, you need to have papers served to the address. The military provides ways to find the addresses of service members if you do not know exactly where they live. Keep in mind that requesting child support can be more complicated in cases that involve members of the military. There is more to the process than serving paperwork.
3. Child Support Payment Costs
After divorce, the child support payments will vary based on specific circumstances. Child support payments are based on the income of both of the child's parents. For members of the military, it can take some time to come up with the calculations of child support payments. This means the military member may be ordered to pay more or less than their normal payments as this payment is being calculated.
4. Failure to Make Payments Is Serious
Several steps occur when a member of the military does not pay child support. First, your divorce attorney may send a notice to the commanding officer of the military member. The service member can face penalties, including a pay cut. This is not a guarantee that the individual will pay, but it can certainly help.
5. Your Next Steps
As the custodial parent, you might wonder what you should do next to ensure that your child receives the financial support they deserve. Divorce is not easy at any stage, and you have options to protect your child. Your next step is to speak with a professional who understands your goals. You have the right to protect your children, so consult with a divorce attorney to learn more about your options.
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