Falling behind on child support payments can quickly lead to serious consequences in Arizona. If you’ve missed court-ordered payments or skipped a hearing, you could be facing a warrant for your arrest. While the situation might feel overwhelming, you do have options, and the sooner you act, the more control you’ll have over the outcome.
At Cohen Family Law, we understand that life can throw unexpected financial challenges your way. Whether you’re struggling to keep up with support payments or trying to resolve a warrant, we can help you get back on track.
What Happens If You Stop Paying Child Support?
When a court issues a child support order, it becomes a legally enforceable obligation. If you fall behind, the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) can take action, including:
- Filing a petition for contempt of court
- Suspending your driver’s license or professional licenses
- Intercepting your tax refunds or unemployment benefits
- Reporting you to credit agencies
- Issuing a bench warrant for your arrest
Being labeled a “fugitive” for unpaid child support isn’t just a figure of speech. Arizona law allows for the arrest of parents who ignore court orders. In some counties, including Maricopa, law enforcement may actively pursue and arrest individuals who are delinquent and unresponsive.
Why Parents Fall Behind
There are many reasons a parent might miss payments:
- Job loss or reduction in income
- Unexpected medical expenses
- New family obligations
- Mental health struggles
- Misunderstanding of the court order
The court doesn’t automatically adjust support obligations based on personal difficulties. That’s why taking legal action before you fall behind is so important.
How to Avoid Becoming Delinquent
If your financial situation has changed, don’t wait for enforcement actions to begin. Arizona law allows for child support modifications when there has been a significant and continuing change in circumstances.
You may qualify for a modification if:
- You lost your job or experienced a drop in income
- Your child care or health insurance costs have changed
- Your child has been emancipated
- You or the other parent has developed a disability
- You’ve been incarcerated
To request a modification, you’ll need to file the appropriate paperwork with the court and provide documentation of your financial changes. We can guide you through this process and help you avoid unnecessary delays or denials.
Addressing an Outstanding Warrant
If a warrant has already been issued due to unpaid child support, ignoring it will only make the situation worse. Law enforcement may take steps to arrest you, and the court could impose additional penalties. Fortunately, you still have options to address the warrant and begin resolving your support obligations.
The first step is to consult with an attorney who can review your case and determine the best approach. In many cases, we may be able to help you request that the warrant be withdrawn or quashed, especially if you show a willingness to begin making payments or seek a formal modification. Voluntary action often reflects positively in court and can help you avoid harsher outcomes.
We’ll help you prepare any necessary documentation, communicate with the court on your behalf, and create a plan that allows you to move forward without fear of unexpected arrest.
How Cohen Family Law Can Help
We’ve worked with parents on both sides of the child support process. If you’re making payments, we’ll help you pursue modifications, challenge enforcement actions, and protect your rights. If you’re owed support, we can help enforce the order and hold the other party accountable.
No matter your circumstances, we approach each case with respect, clarity, and the goal of helping you move forward.
Talk to a Phoenix Child Support Attorney Today
Whether you’re facing delinquency, seeking a modification, or worried about an outstanding warrant, don’t wait until things escalate. At Cohen Family Law, we will help you understand your options and take action with confidence.
We serve clients across Arizona from our Phoenix office. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
