California football fans might be familiar with former NFL wide receiver Robert Meachem. While he was a Super Bowl winner with the New Orleans Saints, the athlete is now in trouble with the law. Meachem reportedly owes almost $400,000 to his ex-wife for alimony and child support. A judge in Jefferson Parish, La., could rule that he is in contempt of court for not attending a preliminary hearing on Nov. 28.
Meachem was a part of the Saints team that won the Super Bowl in 2010. In 2014, his last year as an NFL player, he and his wife of close to six years separated. Meachem was ordered to pay $20,000 a month in child support for their two children.
Payments totaling $200,648 were received, but court documents claim that Meachem is more than $388,000 in arrears. Another court hearing is scheduled for Dec 21., and Meachem can object to the first court’s ruling at that time or in writing. If a 24th Judicial District Court Judge affirms that Meachem is in contempt, he could be fined and sentenced to time in jail. Paying the money owed to his ex-wife should be enough to avoid punishment for contempt.
Many parents may find themselves in a situation where they are owed child support. When one parent fails to pay, the courts could help enforce a child support order. Failing to pay child support could result in jail time if one is able to make payments but chooses not to do so. If one cannot make payments, this person can ask for a modification. One may want to consult an attorney for guidance regarding family law matters.