When a child is brought into this world, it is expected that both parents should care for it, whether they are together as a couple or not. Many couples have a hard time making ends meet with two incomes, so it can be even more difficult for just one parent to sufficiently provide the financial support needed throughout the first 18 years of a child’s life. When a non-custodial parent does not step up to make the required child support payments, he or she will usually face some type of consequence. Pennsylvania parents may be surprised to hear the ruling of a judge against a father who is behind on paying his child support.
The father has 13 children and is behind on support in an amount just over $200,000 for 11 of them. Instead of putting him behind bars, the judge has sentenced him to probation for five years. During those five years, the man is to do everything in his power to keep from becoming a father for the 14th time.
The father’s lawyer argued that he has a right to have as many children as he wants and will appeal the decision. A comparable appellate case sent to the state’s Supreme Court reversed that judge’s original decision because there was no specification on lifting the ban. The judge on this current case stated he did include a way to rescind the ban, which would be for the father to pay the total amount of child support that is due.
Several factors are considered when establishing the terms of a child support agreement in Pennsylvania. The income of both parents as well as any special needs the child may have are just two. Many parents may have questions as they try and figure out the best options for their child. A legal professional who has a thorough understanding of the state’s family law regulations will be able to put their minds at ease.
Source: chronicle.northcoastnow.com, “Judge to man: No more kids until you pay support“, Brad Dicken, June 10, 2016
