My spouse manages all of our finances, but rarely allots me enough money for groceries and clothes for our children. Can I sue for enforcement of child support?
Probably not, unless you and your spouse live separately. Courts do not like to interfere in matters of family lifestyle. However, if the children are being abused or neglected, courts will intervene, seeking the best interest of the children. Parents are required to provide the basic needs of food, clothing, shelter, and education—to the point of age required by state law. If you show to a court that your spouse is failing to provide these basic needs, the court may intervene in the custody of the children rather than ordering the spouse provide support; so, be careful with what you complain to the court. However, there are a few cases in which the court ordered financially capable parents to financially provide for their children.
Related Questions
- Can I obtain an increase of my child support payments when my spouse is earning more money even though my separation or divorce agreement states otherwise?
- Can I obtain an increase of my child support payments when my spouse is earning more money even though my agreement or divorce judgment states otherwise?
- Are step-parents ever required to pay child support for their spouse’s children?
