This Valentine's Day, nearly a dozen men were arrested by DuPage County, Illinois, law enforcement agents for allegedly failing to stay current on their child support obligations.

Single parents in Illinois and everywhere have been affected by the current economic climate. Custodial parents are increasingly dependent on child support payments to make ends meet for their children. Given that the 11 parents arrested on Valentine's Day owed a combined $238,000 in unpaid child support, non-custodial parents are likely also experiencing economic hardship during the recession.

The goal of the Valentine's Day roundup was not to punish parents by throwing them in jail indefinitely or to pursue criminal charges. State prosecutors have indicated that the intent behind the recent push for arrests is to hold parents accountable for obligations to their children. Indeed, these parents will be able to use bail money to offset any child support arrears they may still owe.

In Illinois, the amount of child support owed by a non-custodial parent is set by statutory guidelines. However, the courts may alter child support payment obligations when there is good cause to do so. In addition, child support obligations may be modified if a parent experiences a change in financial circumstances.

When parents who are required to pay child support undergo changes in their financial status, it is important that they understand their continued obligation to their children and what it may mean if they are unable to make any court-ordered payments. Likewise, custodial parents should pay equal attention to child support collection rules.

An experienced attorney can assist with ensuring that child support payments are fair and proper and in the best interest of the children involved.

Source: Daily Herald, "DuPage nabs 11 'deadbeat' dads in Valentine's roundup," Josh Stockinger, February 15, 2012