Before You Start
This checklist helps parents document unpaid support, gather court records, and prepare for enforcement through court, DCSS, or attorney action.
Arizona Law Notes
Arizona's Division of Child Support Services provides services that include obtaining support orders, collecting child, medical, and spousal support from parents with court orders, and helping unwed parents establish paternity. Arizona law also provides that each vested child support installment is enforceable as a final judgment by operation of law. The State of Arizona will guide you through this and you do not need to spend money on an attorney if your case is fairly straightforward.
Interactive Checklist
Work Through the Steps
Selections are saved on this device.
1. Gather Court Orders
0 of 7 complete
2. Document Payment History
0 of 7 complete
3. Identify the Problem
0 of 9 complete
4. Gather Information About the Paying Parent
0 of 7 complete
5. Gather Expense and Harm Evidence
0 of 6 complete
6. Consider Enforcement Options
0 of 7 complete
7. Avoid Common Mistakes
0 of 5 complete
FAQs
Common Questions
What can I do if the other parent is not paying child support in Arizona?
You can pursue enforcement through DCSS, income withholding, court enforcement, contempt, or a request for judgment on arrears, depending on the facts.
Can I stop parenting time if child support is unpaid?
No. Do not do this. Child support and parenting time are separate obligations. Denying parenting time can create legal problems unless there are safety issues or a court order grants it. If you are unmarried, you do not have to legally voluntarily give Father parenting time if he has not filed for establishment. If there are no reasons to deny parenting time, you should consider all the factors.
What records should I keep?
Keep official payment histories, bank records, receipts, messages, court orders, and a timeline of missed payments. Make the payor go through the Clearinghouse. Records will be kept there.
Can unpaid child support be collected later?
Yes, it is called arrears and they collect interest. You just have to find a way to get paid. Arizona treats support obligations seriously, and installments may be enforceable as judgments. Specific enforcement options depend on the case.
Talk With Best Law Firm
Ready to Discuss Your Situation?
Unpaid child support can create immediate hardship. Our Arizona family law team can help you document arrears, evaluate enforcement options, and pursue the support your child is owed.
This checklist is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Arizona family law can be fact-specific, and court procedures may vary by county. If you are preparing to file, respond, negotiate, mediate, or appear in court, speak with an Arizona family law attorney about your situation.