Sadly, in the Commonwealth of Virginia, there are more than 441,000 children who are affected by a noncustodial parent who refuses to pay child support. The Virginia Department of Social Services Division of Child Support Enforcement was created to help parents recover money to look after their child's well-being.

The Child Support Recovery Act of 1992 was also put in place to enforce child support and punish the deadbeat parents who try to shrug off their parental responsibilities. This law makes it a federal crime for parents to cross state lines in order to avoid paying child support.

A parent may be found in violation of the law if child support is unpaid for more than 1 year or the total amount of child support is over $5,000.

The penalties for violating the Child Support Recovery Act includes up to 6 months in prison and a fine. If convicted a second time, the deadbeat parent may spend 2 years in a prison cell and face increased fines.

If you think the Child Support Recovery Act applies to your case in Virginia, contact the DCSE office. The DCSE may then refer your case to the U.S. Attorney's office in order to prosecute the deadbeat parent and recover unpaid child support.

Learn more about child support enforcement in Virginia.

Do you have questions about the Child Support Recovery Act? You should contact an experienced Virginia divorce attorney. When trying to win a child support case, it is important to have legal representation on your side. We understand that the health and happiness of your child is your #1 concern and we will work with you to address any fears and anxieties that you may have about your child's future.

Our women's divorce attorneys will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children. Contact us today to schedule a legal consultation – (757) 425-5200.