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Former NFL player behind in child support payments

Pennsylvania parents know there are several factors that determine the cost of raising a child. The basic needs may be close to the same rate but getting into the specifics of neighborhood, schooling, extracurricular activities and medical needs is where the amount varies between families. When the parents decide to separate and the topic of child support arises, the dollar amount decided by the parents or the courts has to take into consideration these and other expenditures. A former NFL football player may be held in contempt of court for his failure to pay the child support he apparently owes.

Robert Meachem, who played for the New Orleans Saints at the time of their Super Bowl win, owes nearly $400,000 to his ex-wife. The two were married for six years and had two children together. They share custody of the children, but he was ordered to pay retroactive child support of $20,000 per month dating back to the time of the separation two years ago. He has made partial payment on the total sum but has fallen behind.

Mr. Meachem nor his attorney appeared for a recent appointment with a hearing officer, which prompted the officer to propose that the judge find the former football star in contempt of court. Should Mr. Meachem pay the money he owes, he will avoid the penalty but could be facing fines and jail time if not. The deadline for payment is just before the end of the year.

When Pennsylvania parents bring a child into the world, they are responsible for providing for the emotional, physical and financial needs of that child. If those parents separate, that does not excuse either parent from those responsibilities. The court may need to intervene to decide custody issues and/or set an amount of child support the non-custodial parent will need to pay. An experienced attorney may be needed to ensure the best interests of his or her client are protected.

Source: theadvocate.com, “Ex-Saint Robert Meachem said to owe nearly $400K in child support, alimony“, Ramon Antonio Vargas, Nov. 29, 2016