Back child support?

[awylf]

I was awarded my divorce in 2000 in VA. I currently live in the state of Fl. There was never a child support order in place because he was in prison from the time my child was 9 mths old. I have custody he didn't get visitation or anything (I couldn't take his rights). My child will turn 17 next week. He has been out for a few years now and I still haven't received a penny. He has also not made an attempt to visit or even contact my child (not that I think it would be a good idea anyway...) I'm debating on filing for support and I'm curious as to what the laws say about back child support. I'm wondering if it would be worth the effort to even file at this point.

[Attorney Cheri Hobbs]

child support is the right of the child and it is your responsibility to file for support to protect your child's right to it. Even if it is difficult to get back child support (arrears) the court can place a lien on his property or garnish his wages. You should immediately file a Motion for Child Support with the Department of Revenue Child Support Enforcement and/or file a Motion to Establish Child Support in the underlying case.