The Domestic Relations Section (DRS) is the agency of the court that establishes and enforces Court Orders involving child support, spousal support, and alimony pendente lite. A party may file for support through this office. A conference will be held before a Hearing Officer to determine the parties’ incomes and support obligations, generally in accordance with guidelines established by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
When child support is sought, issues including who will pay for daycare, health insurance and unreimbursed medical expenses will also be addressed and incorporated into a support order. Spousal support is an obligation that arises from the marriage. Generally, spousal support or alimony pendente lite are owed by the spouse with the greater income and paid to the spouse with less income.
After entry for an order of support, either party may petition to modify the order if a substantial change in circumstances has occurred. If a support obligation is past due, the Court may enforce its order and collect what is owed. The court’s enforcement powers are broad, and one held to be in contempt can be subject to fines, suspension of licenses as well as commitment to jail.