Courts
In many states, courts assist the child support program by establishing realistic and timely child support orders. Setting accurate and fair orders prevents arrears and ensures orders are based on parents’ ability to pay.
States have discretion in establishing and modifying child support orders and may use a judicial or administrative process, or a combination of both.
- Judicial process – the court sets the support order.
- Administrative process – the state child support agency sets the support order.
Top Courts Resources
Judicial Bench Cards
Variety of information for court officials regarding child support ordersJustice Department Announces Resources to Reform Practices
Published: March 21, 2016DOJ resources to reform practices for assessing ability to pay as part of enforcement efforts to collect fees and finesChild and Spousal Support for Courts and Attorneys
Published: September 26, 2014Explains use of the IWO form for child and spousal support to courts, hearing officers, attorneys, and clerks of courtOCSE Grants Involving Child Support and Judicial Collaboration
Published: September 24, 2007Lessons learned from 1115 and SIP grants involving collaboration between child support agencies and courtsModifying Support Orders
Published: May 15, 2012Describes how effective modifications can assure that child support orders remain appropriate and prevent accumulation of debtIncome Withholding for Support and the State Disbursement Unit
Published: March 3, 2015Explains mandatory use of OMB approved IWO form by all entities to withhold for child support payments- View More Resources >
Last Reviewed: July 27, 2016