Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

Almost 2 months ago, my ex husband was found in willfull contempt of court for non payment of child support. Because of my agreeing to give him 1 more chance to pay, the judge set the case as deferred incarceration. He agreed to pay $500 by July 1st. It is now the 16th of July and no payment has been made. The judge made it very clear to him that if he doesn't pay, she will place a warrant for his arrest. My question is this: the warrant will be from Pinellas county court. He lives in Pasco county. He is a master at hiding and "flying under the radar ". What is the protocol for the warrant being served? His girlfriend supports him by driving everywhere, putting her name only on official documents like rental house, car, car insurance...etc. I know how he can be "caught". Should I speak with someone at the police department? What can I do to speed this along. He has taken this as a "joke" and after 9 years doesn't even see our son anymore. I really thought he was scared straight by the judge at the hearing and would pay. I agreed for him to stay out of jail because my son and I are in desperate financial need. This year of him not paying has really caught up with me now. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!


Asked on 7/16/15, 9:50 am

4 Answers from Attorneys

Lucreita Becude Lucreita D. Becude, P.A.

Get the warrant issued and go to the police department and offer whatever information you can give them . They won't be serving him, they will be picking him up and taking him to jail.

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Answered on 7/16/15, 11:14 am
John Smitten Carey and Leisure

Get the warrant first then contact the police to enforce it.

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Answered on 7/16/15, 7:43 pm
Barry Kaufman The Law Office of Barry W. Kaufman

Go back to the family judge. She will issue the appropriate warrant. You probably do not have to go to the sheriff's office at all, because the Court will more than likely send the warrant directly to the Sheriff in Pasco County. The Sheriff will pick him up on the warrant without your involvement and cart him off to jail. Do not contact him to let him know that a warrant is out for him - that will likely drive him deeper in seclusion.

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Answered on 7/17/15, 4:12 am
David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Contact the JA for the judge to request a warrant for his arrest. You will probably have to file a written request.

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Answered on 7/17/15, 3:47 pm


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