What is the difference between an administrative and court order of child support?

An administrative and court order of child support are similar in that they both are used to legally enforce an agreement for one person to provide financial support to another person for a shared child. However, the two orders have distinct differences in how they are created and enforced. An administrative order of child support is created when the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) works with the parents of the child to set up a payment plan. This order is often created like a contract between the two parents. The DHHS is responsible for monitoring the agreement and if either party fails to meet their obligations, they can be held accountable. In contrast, a court order of child support is created when a court officially enters a final order requiring one party to pay child support. This order is often issued when the parents cannot agree on how to financially support the child. The court will determine the agreement and if either party fails to comply, they can be held in contempt of court. In either case, the order of child support is legally binding and must be followed. If it is not, legal consequences may be imposed. It is important for the parents to carefully review the order and fully understand their rights and responsibilities.

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What is the difference between an administrative and court order of child support?

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