by Richard Campbell

Created on: May 08, 2008   Last Updated: May 12, 2008

The enormous cost of Divorce, both financial and emotional, can bankrupt families and turn family members against each other. With fierce determination and the knowledge that your children come first, however, you can get through the process as a family.

CHILD SUPPORT LAW: Child Support Law in every State was written to protect and provide for the Children. One commonality between State laws is that a Family Court Judge does not care about what kind of car you have to drive, or how much disposable income you have left at the end of the month. A family Court Judge typically only cares about your children, and how you are meeting your obligations toward them. If you remember this fact, and act in accordance with it, you will be much happier, or at least much less unhappy.

CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT: Many States have adopted laws that allow them to revoke driver and even professional licenses. Even more seriously, a Child Support Order is a valid Court Order, and refusal to follow a Court Order can lead to arrest. Though infrequent in most Jurisdictions, a Judge can issue an arrest warrant for Contempt of Court, based on refusal to obey a Child Support Order, and add a stint in jail to the already difficult process of divorce.

CHILD SUPPORT PAYMENTS: While child support is paid to the 'other parent', the money is for the benefit of Your Child, so no matter how angry you are at your 'ex', don't skimp on your child support. Surprisingly, keeping communication open is the best way to keep costs down. When parents are locked in a bitter struggle, neither side has an interest in paring down costly after school activities or other expenses, and may actually add to allowable expenses, just to spite the other. Staying civil with your ex is good for your child, good for you, and good for your bank account.

CHILD SUPPORT AGENCY/SERVICES: Most if not all States have designated Child Support Agencies which administer support issues such as non-payment, late payment, interest and penalties. Frequently, these same agencies/services are charged with investigating claims of abuse or neglect, and many times such agencies make reports to the Court, which ultimately decides upon issues such as Child Support. You must keep in mind that the Judge will, almost without exception, perceive the report of a Child Support Agency as that of a disinterested observer who has the best interests of your child in mind. Parents who work with the Child support Agency on important issues tend to have

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