The Japanese have a term, kenzoku, which translated literally means family.. The connotation suggests a bond between people who've made a similar commitment and who possibly therefore share a similar destiny.
The laws in different states vary on whether a stepparent in this situation may have child custody rights or pay child support. In some states and situations, the stepparent may be ordered to pay child support if the stepparent loses primary physical custody of the child.
As long as you have a child support order (with or without a spousal or partner support order), you can contact the local child support agency in your county and ask them to get involved in the case.They will collect the payments and send them to you. Their services are free of charge. Remember, they can help you if you also have a child support order or need help setting one up. 2  The LCSA can take over this process and help you get a new earnings assignment that orders your former spouse or domestic partner to start paying off the back spousal or partner support (and child support) owed.