What are the penalties for not providing child support in Delaware?

Full question:

My wife is pregnant but I don't think I'm ready to have kids now. So I told her that I don't wanna support this child financially or otherwise. What I wanna know is- what is the punishment for not providing child support in Delaware?

  • Category: Minors
  • Subcategory: Support
  • Date:
  • State: Delaware

Answer:

In Delaware, you are required to support your child until they reach the age of majority. If you fail to provide child support, you may be charged with criminal nonsupport, which is a class B misdemeanor. This means you could face up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,150 (11 Del. C. § 1113). Criminal nonsupport occurs when someone knowingly neglects to provide basic necessities like food, clothing, or shelter for their minor child. The penalties for a class B misdemeanor include up to six months of incarceration at Level V and fines or restitution as determined by the court (11 Del. C. § 4206).

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

If you fail to pay child support in Delaware, you may face legal consequences, including being charged with criminal nonsupport. This is classified as a class B misdemeanor, which can result in up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,150 (11 Del. C. § 1113). Additionally, you may face civil penalties, such as wage garnishment or loss of certain licenses.