(150+)When a person goes through a divorce, the last thing they are thinking about is going to jail. However, one man in South Carolina found himself locked up due to various issues that were caused by his divorce.
What happened in this case?
When Clint Eugene Doran woke up on the morning of a scheduled family court hearing not feeling well, he went to the hospital to get checked out. He called the court and was told a continuance would be issued, but that did not happen. While a doctor ordered the Doran undergo testing for possible blood cancer, a judge issued a warrant for Doran’s arrest.
The judge said that if Doran could not pay his outstanding child support fees and a $1,500 fine, he would be sentenced to four months in jail. He was taken into custody days later. His charges include failing to pay child support, neglecting to pay attorney’s fees his ex-wife incurred, and for violating a restraining order against his ex-wife.
Doran cannot pay for this
According to Susan Dunn, the legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of SC, Doran’s situation is not uncommon.
Many parents cannot afford to pay what they are asked in the aftermath of a divorce. Doran has many supporters, including state lawmakers, who have argued that the courts should be dissuaded from jailing parents without considering their financial situations or offering them any legal advice during the divorce process.
Because this was not originally a criminal case, Doran was not afforded an attorney.
Contact a South Carolina divorce attorney today
Doran’s situation, and many others in the state highlight the importance of seeking legal assistance during the divorce process. With skilled representation, you will be treated fairly throughout the divorce and ensure that you are not facing undue burdens in the divorce settlement.
If you are going through a divorce, you need the help of someone you can trust. At the Elliott Frazier Law Firm, we are here for you. You can contact our Greenville, SC divorce lawyers for a consultation today so we can plan your next steps.
