When child support goes unpaid, it can put a serious strain on a family. You may have heard the term “deadbeat dad” used to describe a parent who avoids paying child support. While the phrase is common, Arizona law doesn’t use that term. What Arizona does have are strong legal tools to make sure parents meet their financial obligations to their children.
If you’re dealing with missed support payments, you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to get the help your child needs. At Cohen Family Law, we’ll walk you through how enforcement works and how we can step in when the other parent falls behind.
What Does “Deadbeat Dad” Mean in Arizona?
“Deadbeat dad” is often used to describe a parent who refuses to pay child support. In reality, Arizona law applies the same standards to all parents, no matter their gender. The court expects both parents to contribute to their child’s upbringing, and if support is ordered, it’s not optional—it’s the law.
When a parent doesn’t pay, it’s a violation of a court order. That can lead to serious legal consequences. Arizona’s goal isn’t to punish parents, but to ensure that children have the financial support they deserve.
Arizona’s Laws on Child Support Enforcement
Arizona uses a range of tools to collect overdue support. The Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) is the state agency responsible for enforcing child support orders. They work with the courts and other agencies to track, collect, and distribute child support payments.
If a parent falls behind, DCSS can take steps such as:
- Wage garnishment (taking support directly from the parent’s paycheck)
- Intercepting tax refunds or lottery winnings
- Placing liens on property or bank accounts
- Suspending driver’s licenses or professional licenses
- Blocking passport renewals
These enforcement methods are designed to keep the child’s needs at the forefront. In some cases, interest is added to the unpaid amount, increasing the total that’s owed over time.
What Happens If Someone Refuses to Pay Child Support?
Missing a single payment might not lead to major consequences right away. But if a parent stops paying altogether or falls seriously behind, the court can step in. Arizona judges have the authority to hold a parent in contempt of court, a legal finding that indicates they have willfully ignored a court order.
The consequences of contempt may include:
- Fines
- Jail time
- A court-ordered payment plan
- Wage withholding orders
If the court finds that the parent is choosing not to pay, rather than being unable to do so, the penalties can be significant. Child support debt doesn’t disappear, and even if a parent moves out of state, Arizona can still pursue the unpaid amount through national enforcement programs.
Protecting Your Child’s Right to Support
Child support isn’t about punishing the other parent—it’s about making sure your child has what they need. If you’ve been counting on that support and it’s not coming through, you have every right to take action.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Keep good records of missed payments or partial payments
- Act early—don’t wait until the unpaid amount piles up
- Reach out for legal support so your request is taken seriously in court
In many cases, enforcement actions make a real difference. Even if the order is several years old, Arizona courts can still help you collect what you’re owed.
How We Can Help at Cohen Family Law
At Cohen Family Law, we’ve helped parents across Arizona take action when child support stops coming in. We’ll start by reviewing your existing court order and looking at your options. If enforcement through DCSS is already underway, we can step in to help expedite the process. If not, we can file a court petition to push for compliance.
In some cases, the other parent may claim they can’t pay or try to delay the process. We’ll be ready with the evidence and legal arguments to push for a fair outcome. And if modifications are needed, either because your situation or the other parent’s has changed, we can help with that too. Our goal is simple: to make sure your child receives the support they’re entitled to under the law.
Take the First Step Toward Getting What Your Child Is Owed
You shouldn’t have to fight for support that’s already been ordered. If the other parent isn’t paying, we’re here to help you take action. Arizona law offers strong tools, and we know how to use them. Contact Cohen Family Law today for a consultation. We’ll help you protect your child’s future.
