In Georgia, non-payment of child support can lead to serious legal consequences, including felony charges. While there isn’t a specific dollar amount that automatically triggers a felony, the accumulation of significant arrears, coupled with a willful refusal to pay, can result in prosecution under Georgia law. Factors considered include the duration of the non-payment, the parent’s ability to pay, and any previous attempts to enforce the child support order.
Ensuring consistent child support payments is crucial for the well-being of children. These funds provide for basic necessities like food, shelter, clothing, and medical care. The state’s robust enforcement mechanisms, including the potential for felony charges, emphasize the gravity of this obligation and the importance of upholding the financial responsibility of parents towards their children. This legal framework aims to deter non-payment and protect children’s rights to financial support.