All dependent children have the right to be emotionally, physically, and financially supported by their parents. The core problem with child-support laws and policies is that there is too much emphasis on enforcement and not enough focus on getting fathers involved in their children’s lives.

While the issues of child support and parenting may be decided in the same divorce or paternity settlement, in most jurisdictions the two rights and obligations are completely separate and individually enforceable. Custodial parents may not withhold contact to “punish” a noncustodial parent for failing to pay some or all child support required. Conversely, a noncustodial parent is required to pay child support even if they are being denied parenting time/visitation.

The current system fixates on enforcement while ignoring parental involvement, and yet children need both financial and emotional support from their parents.  Reform is needed that will make the system more rational and workable;