[OH] [OH] Will I go to jail for not paying child support?
I was just slapped with $11k in child support arrears due to my ex objecting to the original order last year. The magistrate didn’t allow me to present evidence, so my ex ended up being granted an increased amount from me and the $11k in arrears calculated back to April 2024.
Will I be arrested even while paying it? Or would my ex be able to get me arrested for it being such a large amount?
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Jail is a last resort, typically only used when someone is not paying support. If you are actively paying and reducing the arrears, there is no reason for jail time.
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In Hamilton County, Ohio, I was just slapped with $11k in child support arrears due to my ex objecting to the original order last year. The magistrate didn’t allow me to present evidence, so my ex ended up being granted an increased amount from me and the $11k in arrears calculated back to April 2024.
Will I be arrested even while paying it? Or would my ex be able to get me arrested for it being such a large amount?
The decision was from July 15th, 2025. I will be making payments up to the max of 65% of my disposable income from my paychecks — should I be worried about potential arrest?
I understand how concerning this situation must be for you. Have you been able to communicate with your ex about the payment plan you intend to follow?
My ex is hostile and malicious. She pays $0 in rent or health insurance for her and the kids (CareSource), and $0 for childcare as her family watches them — but not for me. She makes $1,600/month, while I pay $2,224/month in rent and insurance.
She doesn’t need the child support — she wants it to get more money and not have to work more than part-time, knowing it will force me to be evicted and not see the kids. Talking to her is pointless. The cruelty makes her happy.
Have you already sought legal advice or representation regarding the child support order and the arrears?
I cannot afford a lawyer for child support.
Is there anything else the family lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with child support.
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This is Alex, Esq.
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First, thank you for coming to the site and trusting that we can help you better understand your situation. Second, I understand how frustrating and concerning this must be — I’m here to help and hope we can work through this so you know what direction to proceed in and alleviate the stress.
How are you?
Stressed.
Of course — and I’m sorry to hear that. Why were you not allowed to present any evidence?
She is horrible, and I’m concerned she’ll try to get me arrested before our custody trial due to the amount of arrears I just got earlier this week. She tried getting me fired previously.
That is concerning. If you were not allowed to be heard, present evidence, or contest the order, you can request reconsideration or file an appeal if the magistrate failed to follow the law.
Jail is a last resort, typically only used when someone is not paying support. If you are actively paying and reducing the arrears, there is no reason for jail time.
Okay, so even if she tries, because I’m paying it, it can’t happen?
And yes, I’m working on an objection, motion to stay, motion to vacate, and administrative review with CSEA due to her costs vs mine — since this will lead to me losing my place and my chance at custody.
It is not up to her to seek jail time — that decision rests with the judge, and only if support is not being paid. Jail is a last resort.
Gotcha. Okay, well that’s good to know.
You’re welcome.
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