Im current on child support but arrears on a non modifiable spousal
support. I assume I will be held in contempt for not being able to pay
a 1225.00 per month spousal support order. I currently have little
financial means due to no employement. Once employed again I wish to
know if a judge would throw me into jail or issue the same types of
child enforcement restrictions that can be applied if you are a dead
beat dad? Why would a judge risk loosing the childs support monies
that would come if I was in jail?

Hi az01...

I don't live in Arizona ( whish I did though ;) but they must have
similar support guidelines to here in ON Canada. If your income has
changed, why don't you apply for a "Variation" to your support
obligations? If you are currently unemployed and you have proof, there
is a darn good chance that the court will lower your support payments
without penalty. Good luck!!

Steph53 ( Not a Researcher )

The court will usually take its lead from how your ex deals with the
situation.  If she doesn't pursue an enforecement, the court will do
almost certainly do nothing.  If your ex is very cooperative, then ask
her to make a modification to your previous orders.  If she decides to
be difficult, then anything is possible, even jail.  Lots of "ifs," I
know.

Should she file or even threaten to pursue enforcement, get a lawyer. 
There are so many factors to consider and the consequences are serious
enough that only a lawyer could give you reliable advice in this area.
 Researching the law is good for peace of mind and to properly guide
your lawyer, but you'll need a lawyer to avoid getting steamrolled.

I live in AZ and if you live in Maricopa county they will throw you in
the jail until you can pay the support. I have a friend who is in this
delimma (they refuse to let him see his son, but are trying to force
him to pay support and child funds) and he spent time in jail until he
brought his payments current.

He is unemployeed and now has filed bankruptcy and it stopped any
action from the state/local courts as they cannot trump a federal
bankruptcy judgement.

Good luck,

RW