by Travers & Travers | Apr 9, 2019 |

IV-D court is a child support court that is typically held when one parent accuses the other of not complying with child support payments or a parent wants to change the amount of an existing child support order. IV-D court can also be used to establish paternity of a child.

For fathers, gender norms can make IV-D court difficult from any position. If you may be involved in IV-D court, it is important that you begin to assemble necessary evidence to prove your dedication as a father.

Assemble necessary items

If applicable, try to gather and bring the following to IV-D court to demonstrate your involvement in your child’s life:

• A form of identification
• A lawyer
• Pay stubs or other current evidence of employment and wage
• Record of health insurance premiums that have been paid for the child
• Evidence you pay for health insurance for the child through your employer
• Record of child support payments and (if applicable) any extra payments
• Federal Income Taxes for the last 2 years
• Evidence that demonstrates which parent is the primary caretaker of the child
• Benefits award letter (if you receive Social Security Supplemental Income Veterans Compensation or Pension payments)
• Other items that can prove your testimony to the court is true

Arrive on time

Make arrangements and leave yourself plenty of room to arrive on time. Try driving the route, so that you know how to get there and where to park. Account for traffic, fuel, your work schedule and other deterrents that could occur.

Arrange for child care

Don’t bring your child(ren) to court with you. Most courts don’t allow children in the court.

Bring a lawyer

Both parents have an obligation to provide support to their child. Whether your ex-spouse isn’t meeting that obligation or you’re being accused of not paying child support, the odds may be against you as a father.

Before going to court, seek the counsel and aid of a divorce attorney dedicated to preserving a father’s parental rights. You can learn more about what to expect in court or talk to a divorce lawyer to begin preparing for your case.