Can a noncustodial parent escape child support payments by declaring bankruptcy?
Child support payments generally cannot be discharged in bankruptcy. This means that a parent who owes child support cannot escape the debt by filing for bankruptcy. Bankruptcies also cannot stay, or put on hold, actions to establish paternity or to establish or modify child support obligations. The relationship between child support and bankruptcy law is complex, however, and you may need the help of someone familiar with bankruptcy law to answer specific questions.
