questions & answers

Question: I had a child at 16 and my parents are paying for everything she and I need. The babies dad turned 18 right before I had her and he does not help in anyway with support. He comes to see her for a hour or so every time he and his new girlsfriend are fighting, how can I get child support for our daughter even though I am only 16. My parents should not have to pay for all her care.

Answer:

If a parent requests, the court may order child support when:

 • Married couples are divorcing or separating.

• Unmarried parents are breaking up or separating.

 • An unmarried parent who has never lived with the other parent requests child support.

 Note: In Arizona, if a parent is unmarried, paternity must be established before child support can be ordered. If you need more information about Child support please see the article "Child Support in Arizona".  For Arizona child support enforcement forms and applications please follow the link to the Department of Economic Security's website.