One Missed Payment Could Lead to License Suspension and More
Failing to keep up with child support payments in Oklahoma can lead to serious consequences, including probation and even the suspension or revocation of your licenses. The stakes are high—not just financially but also in terms of your ability to work, drive, and maintain your livelihood. Understanding how probation revocation hearings work and what options you have is critical to protect your rights and your future.
Understanding Probation for Child Support Delinquencies
Oklahoma law allows courts to place obligors—those required to pay child support—on probation if they fall behind on payments. This probation can last up to three years and is designed to offer a structured opportunity to catch up on owed support while avoiding immediate penalties like license suspension.
While on probation, the obligor is allowed to keep their licenses, and the licensing boards will not be notified of the probation status. However, compliance with the payment plan and other court orders is required throughout this period. Failure to comply can lead to automatic penalties at the end of probation without further hearings. Okla. Stat. tit. 56, § 240.16.
How Notices and Hearings Work
When an obligor falls behind on child support, the Department of Human Services (DHS) will send a notice explaining that licenses will be suspended, revoked, or that probation may be imposed within 20 days unless specific actions are taken. These actions include paying the full past-due amount, entering an approved payment plan, maintaining required health insurance, and complying with subpoenas or genetic testing orders.Okla. Stat. tit. 56, § 240.15.
If the obligor requests a hearing within 20 days, it will be scheduled to determine whether probation or license suspension/revocation is appropriate. At this hearing, noncompliance is reviewed, and the hearing officer will decide on the proper course of action. Entering and complying with a payment plan can lead to probation instead of immediate license suspension (Okla. Stat. tit. 43 § § 139.1(C), 240.16).
The Impact of License Suspension and Revocation
Oklahoma law permits the revocation of various types of licenses—including driver’s, professional, occupational, and recreational licenses—if an obligor fails to comply with child support orders for at least 90 days. This includes failure to pay, failure to maintain health insurance for the child, or failure to comply with genetic testing orders. For licensed professionals like attorneys, noncompliance can also trigger disciplinary actions by professional boards.
License revocations are serious because they can affect your ability to work and maintain your lifestyle. The law intends to encourage compliance but also imposes strict consequences for failure to meet obligations Okla. Stat. tit. 43, § 139.1.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Probation revocation hearings and license suspension proceedings can be complicated and stressful. Understanding your rights and obligations under Oklahoma law is essential. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate payment plans, represent you at hearings, and work to minimize the impact of any enforcement actions.
For help with probation issues or child support enforcement, contact Wirth Law Office – Muskogee. Experienced Muskogee attorneys are ready to guide you through this challenging process. If you need a probation attorney who understands Oklahoma’s laws and procedures, reach out today.
Contact Muskogee Attorneys Today for Probation and Child Support Issues
If you are facing probation revocation or risk losing your licenses due to child support delinquencies in Oklahoma, you are not alone. The legal process can be confusing and overwhelming, but help is available. Wirth Law Office – Muskogee offers compassionate, clear guidance to help you understand your options and protect your rights. Call (918) 913-0725 to discuss your case and take the first step toward resolving your situation.
