In the news:

[BL]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

US http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/skip-child-support-go-to-jail-lose-job-repeat/ar-AAbkZsj

 

[single317dad]

While I agree that there are some problems in the CS system, I don't think it's nearly as dire as the author lets on. Getting rid of imputed wages? How would states that use a flat percentage even assess support then? 20% of $0?

The guy in the story made several mistakes: to start with, he didn't pay attention to what was happening with his paid support; he didn't address that error in a timely manner; he "didn't do all he could to pay", according to his brother; and, finally, he ran from police. A series of poor life choices led to his demise.

My own father paid about 30 child support payments during my childhood. All were paid immediately before or after court hearings which would determine whether he went to jail or not. If not for that threat, he never would have paid anything at all.

 

[stealth2]

If we're not going to impute income to an NCP who takes a lower paying job, then we shouldn't impute the CP who does the same (even if it is to quits to stay home. Good for the goose should be good for the gander.