The economy still hasn't recovered from the recent recession. Unemployment rates are still high, and the cost of living is only increasing. As each day passes, it becomes harder and harder for many people to make ends meet. Unfortunately, many individuals are also unable to keep up with their child support obligations during these difficult economic times.
Compliance with Chicago child support payments is declining, particularly in the Chicago suburbs. For instance in DuPage County for 2010 there were over 9,000 child support cases in arrears, an over 40 percent climb since 2008, representing over $110 million in missed child support payments. McHenry County saw an increase of 66 percent, Lake County had a 43 percent increase, Kane County saw a 24 percent rise, and Cook County saw an increase of eight percent between 2008 and 2009, but then saw a decline.
Interestingly, during the same time frame the number of delinquent child support cases tracked statewide actually decreased by roughly 14,000 cases, indicating Chicago suburbs are experiencing a particular struggle around the issue of unpaid child support.
There are a number of reasons for this increase in unpaid child support. Many in the Chicago area are struggling to find a job. Others just don't make enough money to meet their support obligations, while some may just decide to ignore them.
Child support is frequently used for necessities like food, housing and clothing for children. These unpaid balances are leaving single-parent families with no choice but to make sacrifices. This can place further strain on families, many of which are already struggling. It can be a frustrating situation for both parents who want to financially provide for their children.
A parent attempting to collect child support for their children can take a number of steps. An Illinois family law attorney can provide assistance in obtaining or enforcing a court order. A lawyer can also assist with the modification of child support orders for parents who are unable to meet their current obligations because of a change in circumstances.
