Terzich & Ort, LLP
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Divorce in Minnesota

Divorce In Minnesota

Divorce in Minnesota

Divorce In Minnesota

Spousal Maintenance

Spousal Maintenance

Spousal Maintenance

Spousal Maintenance

Property Division

Property Division

Property Division

Property Division

Paternity Cases

Paternity Cases

Paternity Cases

Paternity Cases

Domestic Abuse

Domestic Abuse

Domestic Abuse

Domestic Abuse

The State of Minnesota has, for the most part, exhibited considerable consideration and sensitivity in the past in matters involving child care and support. It is always in the best interests of the child for his or her parents to take financial responsibility for the welfare of the child and the everyday expenses necessary for the child’s well-being. When parents are unable to do so, state and federal programs provide an essential safety net.

The Department of Human Services in Minnesota plays a key role in providing welfare benefits to the residents of the state. The department administers some federal programs, and must meet federal standards that include prerequisites for a resident to be eligible for such benefits. One of these conditions is that the resident has to satisfy the necessary child support requirements.

A recent report from the Minnesota State Auditor has revealed quite an alarming situation. Apparently, the Department has failed to meet the standards required by some federal programs. According to the auditor, the Department provided benefits to some people who did not meet the child support requirements.

When a parent fails to make court-ordered child support payments, they can face serious consequences. One of those consequences is losing eligibility for state and federal assistance programs. If a parent is truly unable to make the monthly payment due to job loss or other financial circumstances, they can petition the court for a modification of child support. It is best to seek such a modification before delinquent payments add up, however.

Source: KSTP.com, “MN State Auditor: DHS Didn’t Meet Legal Requirements in Some Programs,” Leslie Dyste, March 26, 2014.