There are many ways people may attempt to evade child support or spousal support obligations. These family law violations can have serious consequences for both the violating payer and the dependants involved. Recently, one man made news in Calgary, Alberta when he was arrested after fleeing from a $560,000 child support bill.
Changing location or even fleeing the country is one way people can try to evade orders from family law proceedings. In this case, the man in question fled from his United States home to Calgary, Alberta in order to leave his obligation behind. A warrant was made for his arrest after two years of not paying, and was later placed on the top of the list of most wanted parents not paying child support by the Office of the Inspector General.
The $560,000 bill racked up over the course of 20 years, and is the result of an order pertaining to his four children. The father had sold a successful internet business for over $2 million in 1996, which also increased the amount of child support he was ordered to pay. He was caught after attempting to sue a local restaurant for an alleged dental injury, though restaurant owners say the claim appeared fraudulent.
Those who have moved to Alberta from other provinces or countries may still have family law obligations from their previous homes. Not following these orders can lead to arrest, as in this case. A family law attorney is a good resource for anyone with questions or concerns about child support payments.
Source: Newsweek, ““Deadbeat” Dad Owes $560,000 in Child Support, Arrested After 20 Years“, Ewan Palmer, Feb. 23, 2018