We've had a child support case open for 21 years and he owes $14,000+ in arrears. He has offered to pay me $5000 in lump some to close the case. I agreed however he owes for 2 other cases with his ex wife. I don't want to go through the courts for the payment if they will get half of it. Can he pay outside of court case and have it still count in the system?
If the child support case is being handled through the Nevada Child Support Enforcement Office, any payment made outside the system (directly to you) will not automatically be credited toward his arrears. The state generally requires all payments to go through the official child support office so they can be recorded, tracked, and distributed correctly.
If he owes arrears on multiple cases, the state may apply part of any lump-sum payment toward all his debts, not just yours. That’s why private side agreements can be risky—if he pays you directly, the court may still consider the arrears unpaid, and he could remain responsible for the full amount.
If you both want to settle, the proper way is to contact the Nevada child support office or a family law attorney to request a formal compromise or arrears settlement. Once approved and documented, it ensures the payment is recognized and that the balance is updated in the official system.
Avoid accepting a private payment unless it’s formally approved; otherwise, you could face disputes later about whether it counts toward his obligation.
Consumers can use this platform to pose legal questions to real lawyers and receive free insights.
Participating legal professionals get the opportunity to speak directly with people who may need their services, as well as enhance their standing in the Lawyers.com community.