How to make matters worse for your child support case: Fake your own death

How to make matters worse for your child support case: Fake your own death

Many family law attorneys have seen some pretty wild tactics from people trying to dodge paying child support. But few can rival the audacity of those who fake their own death in order to do so. It seems like the plot of an Adam Sandler movie, but such scenarios do play out in real life, including one that recently made headlines. Spoiler alert: It didn’t end well for the perpetrator.

A plot gone awry: The case of the Kentucky "ghost"

Take the case of a Kentucky man who staged his own demise in an elaborate (but ultimately doomed) attempt to shirk his financial responsibilities. He went so far as to have a fake death certificate sent to authorities, claiming he had perished in a tragic accident. Unfortunately for him, his ruse unraveled. A thorough investigation revealed that he was very much alive, leading to criminal charges and a prison sentence of over six years.

So if you’re planning to do the same, don’t. Trying to evade child support through deceit is a recipe for failure and will only make an already challenging situation much worse.

Let’s explore why this and similar tactics are legal dead ends.

Why faking your death is a legal nightmare

Deadbeat dads should think twice before resorting to faking their death to avoid paying child support. After all, it's a crime for which perpetrators may be charged with fraud, obstruction of justice, and/or identity theft.

Beyond the immediate legal ramifications, staging one’s death to avoid paying child support demonstrates a blatant disregard for the court’s authority and the well-being of your kid. Courts take these matters seriously, and attempting to defraud the system can result in significant penalties, including:

  • Criminal charges: As our Kentucky friend learned, fraud-related charges often carry severe consequences, including hefty fines and imprisonment.
  • Loss of credibility: Once your deception is exposed, it’s nearly impossible to regain the court’s trust. This lack of credibility can negatively impact future custody or support hearings.
  • Increased financial penalties: In addition to your existing child support obligations, you may be ordered to pay restitution for any costs incurred during the investigation of your fake death.

The impact on your child

Let’s not forget the true victims of these stunts: your children. Child support is a legal and moral obligation. These payments help ensure your kids have access to necessities like food, clothing, education, and healthcare. Faking your own death — or any other scheme to avoid payment — sends a clear message that you’re prioritizing your own interests over their well-being.

Better ways to handle child support challenges

If you’re struggling to meet your child support obligations, there are legal avenues to address the situation without having to play possum. Consider the following alternatives:

  • Request a modification: If your financial situation has changed significantly, you can petition the court to modify your child support order. Courts understand that life circumstances evolve, and they’re willing to work with individuals who demonstrate good faith.
  • Seek mediation: Mediation allows you and your ex to come together and negotiate new terms under the guidance of a neutral third party. This approach can often lead to mutually beneficial agreements.
  • Communicate with your attorney: Consulting an experienced family law attorney can provide clarity and ensure you’re taking the best course of action. At LaGrandeur & Williams, we’ve helped countless clients navigate complex child support issues.

Related reading: Reasons to request more child support that have nothing to do with your ex’s successful Las Vegas shows

A cautionary tale with a clear message

The Kentucky case serves as a stark reminder that there are no shortcuts when it comes to fulfilling your child support obligations. Schemes like faking your own death may seem like a clever loophole, but they’re more like quicksand: the deeper you go, the harder it is to escape.

The road to resolving your child support issues doesn’t have to involve faking your own funeral. At LaGrandeur & Williams, we’re here to help you find real solutions to your family law challenges. If you’re facing difficulties with child support, custody arrangements, or other related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Leave the theatrics to Hollywood and focus on strategies that work in real life.