Criminal Nonsupport of a Dependent

Most parents want to ensure that they properly support and care for their children, even though they may not always have the financial resources to do so. Some parents, however, neglect their responsibility to support their children or spouse even though they know they have an obligation and are able to provide financial support. When an individual fails to provide support to his or her children or spouse when he or she has the ability to do so, the individual is guilty of criminal nonsupport.

Charges

A parent has a responsibility to support his or her children, whether the children were born inside or outside of a marriage. When an individual ignores this legal obligation, he or she may be charged with criminal nonsupport of a dependent, a first-degree misdemeanor.

If the offender violates this law four or more times, or has failed to provide support for over one year and owes the dependent $5,000 or more in support, he or she may be charged with a third-degree felony.

Criminal Punishment

A person charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for criminal nonsupport may be sentenced with the following penalties:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Up to $1,000 in fines

For a third-degree felony for nonsupport, the offender may be issued the following sentence:

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Up to $5,000 in fines

In addition, any conviction for criminal nonsupport will include a court-ordered restitution payment to the dependent(s) for any outstanding support that has not been paid.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with criminal nonsupport, consider consulting with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney can provide you with sound legal advice and assistance and will protect your rights throughout your case.

To learn more about criminal nonsupport charges and court defense, contact the West Palm Beach criminal attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.