What occurs every time a child support payment becomes due and is not paid?

When a child support payment becomes due and is not paid, it automatically results in the unpaid amount being converted into a judgment. This is significant because, under most jurisdictions, once the payment is missed, it creates a legal obligation that the arrears must be paid, and failure to do so enforces the court’s decision. The judgment can then empower the custodial parent or the state to take further action, which may include wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, or even filing liens against property. It reflects the seriousness of child support obligations and serves to maintain accountability for the non-custodial parent in fulfilling their financial responsibilities.

The other options don't accurately reflect what happens in this scenario. While civil offenses and license suspensions may occur under certain circumstances of non-payment, they are not automatic results for every missed payment. Also, the idea that the court would dismiss the missed payment lacks a basis in law, as non-payment generally leads to increased enforcement efforts rather than dismissal. Thus, the conversion of the outstanding payment into a judgment is a crucial mechanism in ensuring compliance with child support obligations.