In North Carolina, there is no specific dollar amount that automatically triggers felony charges for non-payment of child support. Rather, failure to pay child support can lead to criminal prosecution under North Carolina General Statute 14-322, which addresses willful failure to comply with a child support order. “Willful” implies a conscious and intentional disregard for the court’s order. Several factors can influence whether this charge becomes a felony, including the duration and overall pattern of non-payment, the ability of the owing parent to pay, and any previous instances of non-compliance.
Enforcement of child support orders is critical for the well-being of children. Consistent financial support ensures children have access to necessities such as food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. Criminal prosecution serves as a strong deterrent against non-payment and provides a mechanism for compelling responsible financial contributions from parents obligated to provide support. This legal framework provides a means of ensuring children receive the financial resources they are entitled to, promoting their healthy development and overall stability.