Failing to Pay Child Support May Result In a Criminal Charge

In Missouri, failing to pay child support can lead to a misdemeanor or even felony criminal charge. A person commits the crime of non-support if he or she knowingly fails to provide, without good cause, adequate support for his or her spouse. A parent commits the crime of non-support if such parent knowingly fails to provide, without good cause, adequate support which such parent is legally obligated to provide for his or her child or stepchild who is not otherwise emancipated by operation of law.

Criminal non-support can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony offense. Criminal non-support is a Class A misdemeanor, unless the total arrearage is in excess of an aggregate of twelve monthly payments due under any order of support issued by the court or any authorized administrative agency, in which case it is a class D felony.

Given the current state of the economy, it not unusual to find yourself in a position where you are failing to pay child support. There are, however, defenses to a criminal charge of non-support. It is vital that if arrested or charged with criminal non-support in Missouri, you immediately call our office to speak to one of our experienced Missouri non-support lawyers to assist you with your case. Call us today for a free consultation.