This is the next article in my series on the handling of Las Vegas, Nevada paternity cases. My last article discussed how to establish child custody after paternity is determined. It is important to remember that the process is highly complicated and all applicable laws must be followed. This is why it is crucial to retain an experienced paternity lawyer to assist you. This article will further this discussion by outlining how courts handle back pay for child support in such matters. If you or a family member are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
Nevada judges will only award up to four years of back child support
A parent with physical custody of a child may only be granted up to four years of back child support when there is no previous court order in place. Specifically, the parent may only recover payments from up to four years from the date a court case is filed. Payment will be awarded to the custodial parent even if the child is over eighteen years old by the time the demand for child support was filed. Fathers may believe that if they continue to deny paternity, they will not need to pay child support once the child turns eighteen years old. Yet, the father may still be responsible for paying up to four years of back child support. Moreover, mothers may think that they can receive ten years or more of back pay for child support payments, but this is not the case.
This topic is best explained by way of example. Suppose a Nevada mother has had physical custody of her son since the day he was born, but never received a court order establishing child support. Further, suppose that the father has never once paid the mother child support for the child’s entire adolescent life and the child is now twenty years old. The mother now decides to file an action seeking child support payments from the father and requests back pay. Despite the fact that the child is over eighteen years old, the court will award the mother up to two years in back child support for the years the child was a minor.
Las Vegas parents should establish paternity immediately, even if they are in agreement on child support issues
Even if parents get along and agree on issues such as child support, they should still seek out a legal order. Without such an order, parents with physical custody of their child may be subjected to restrictions on back pay and may not receive the compensation they are entitled to. Moreover, a legal order will prevent confusing situations where a parent may have to prove that they have been paying child support for years. It will also ensure that parents will not be required to pay additional support. This is one reason why it is necessary to establish paternity of your child immediately. Establishing paternity as soon as possible will be best for both parents and the child.
When dealing with paternity and child support cases, it is important to retain an attorney who is experienced in handling such matters. I am a Las Vegas paternity lawyer who understands that this is an important time in your life. I devote my practice to the handling of family law, and I am proud of the service which I provide to my clients. This includes providing fast responses and maintaining communication with you throughout the entire duration of your case. If you are in need of help then contact me online or by telephone today.