First, you must be able to prove that the man you are suing is the father of your child -- seems obvious, I know; but if you take this guy to court the first thing he's going to say is "How do you know that the child is mine?" That involves a paternity test, and if he's not willing to take one you can petition the court to order him to take the test. This may require you to get a lawyer, depending on which state you're from. Some states have special programs (like Friend of the Court in Michigan) that will help you with this.
Once you have proof that the child is his, you can file a civil action in court to demand child support. Again, there may be a state agency that will help you, but if not you'll have to get a lawyer. Word of mouth is really the best advertising for lawyers, but for starters you may want to look through the Yellow Pages and find someone who practices in family law and gives free initial consultations. If you can prove that this guy is the father it's usually a slam-dunk -- the court will order him to pay child support unless he can show just cause (and it would have to be one heck of a good reason -- to date I have NEVER seen a judge waive child support when the mother had proof of paternity).
If he doesn't pay in the future, go back to court and inform the judge that the child support he/she ordered this guy to pay is not being paid. Depending on the laws of your state, the judge may be able to have his pay garnished.
Good luck!
2006-12-12 06:36:28
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answer #1
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answered by sarge927 7
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If they have a true job that has wages that can be garnished then get a lawyer or go to a program that helps people with this. If not then you may be in trouble. There is a saying you can not squeeze a stone & get water. This is where it applies most for lawyers. A court order is a piece of paper that states somebody must do something. It does not force nor promise that they will. This means many more legal fees & days in court. I am not saying dont do it, just chose the right time to do it. You dont pick fruit when it first appears, you wait till it is ripe. 20% of nothing is nothing so make sure they have something before you sue for something.
2006-12-12 06:39:13
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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Most states have a 1-800 number for the state Attorney General. The AG's office can be really effective in getting you child support. They often will do the DNA testing is paternity is in question.
2006-12-12 06:31:52
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answer #3
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answered by BUPPY'S MEME 5
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First, you have to file a claim. The best way to do this due to the complicated nature of the law and procedure rules is to have a lawyer working on your behalf. Many agencies will offer legal support, including Legal Aid.
2006-12-12 06:31:34
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answer #4
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answered by Jamir 4
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The fastest way is to apply for State welfare...they'll file a child support complaint so fast your head will spin.
2006-12-12 06:34:06
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answer #5
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answered by gigi_victory 3
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if you,re only 18 and still in school,you can get child susport until you;re 21, but if you are a drop out it will be hard.because some states concerner 18 as and adult. even if you are still living at home.
2006-12-12 06:37:20
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answer #6
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answered by Anonymous
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Go to a child support enforcement agency in your area.
2006-12-12 06:27:01
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answer #7
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answered by KB 2
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You contact your local district attorneys office and ask to speak with the child support division and they will be able to help you or at least point you in the wright direction.
2006-12-12 06:37:23
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answer #8
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answered by dionne h 1
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YOU HAVE TO GO TO THE COUNTY FAMILY COURT AND FILE A PETITION WITH THE COURTS.
YOU THEN SEE A JUDGE THAT WILL ISSUE A COURT ORDER FOR THE FATHER TO APPEAR IN COURT.
YOU HAVE THE FATHER SERVED WITH THE COURT ORDER.
YOU THEN GO TO COURT ON THE PRESCRIBED DATE AND TELL YOUR STORY TO THE JUDGE.
THE JUDGE WILL MAKE ALL DECISIONS FROM THAT POINT ON.
IT'S BETTER TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY WHEN YOU GO TO COURT.
2006-12-12 06:31:55
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answer #9
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answered by strike_eagle29 6
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Contact your states’ social services department. They can determine eligibility and garnish paychecks to ensure payment.
2006-12-12 06:32:02
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answer #10
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answered by dopeadevil23 4
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