Pennsylvania Mom Arrested for Failing to Pay Child Support

By Sheryl Rentz on January 15, 2009

The Allegheny County Sheriff’s office arrested a woman who owes more than $40,000 in child support, according to this Associated Press news report. Genevieve Null, 38, of McKees Rocks, fled to Florida but returned to Pennsylvania. Officials have been looking for her for about three years, they said. Null had also been featured on a Sheriff’s Office Web site as one of Allegheny County’s “most wanted.”

Child support, in addition to child custody, is among the most hotly contested issues during a divorce. In some case, parents do not obey the law and fail to fulfill their obligations. The consequences of doing that in Pennsylvania are extremely severe. Seeking a skilled divorce attorney in Philadelphia, PA can help you find a solution to your dilemma.

Amounts owed in back payments of child support are known as “arrearages.” A parent who fails to pay these dues can face a number of penalties including jail time, driving license and passport suspension, seizure of bank accounts or other assets. Your failure to pay these dues may even be reported to credit agencies, bringing your credit rating down.

Pennsylvania law provides for an enforcement application to be filed if your former spouse or partner fails or refuses to pay child support that is owed under a court order. Whether you are a parent who owes child support or a parent who wants to collect child support that is owed, you need to consult with an experienced Pennsylvania child support lawyer to find out about your legal rights and options. If you are in such a situation, please call the Law Office of Sheryl R. Rentz at 610-645-0100 to schedule a free consultation.