Parents are always permitted a lot of latitude in how they raise their children. Before they are adults, children rely on parents for a lot of guidance in how to navigate life then and in the future. But the most basic needs that children have, such as shelter and food, are required to be provided by law in Missouri and other states. This can get complicated when parents are no longer together or if they were not together in the first place. Children may end up splitting their time between homes or parenting styles, so the least they can expect is the support they need to stay fed, clothed and in an appropriate home. There is recourse when parents fail or refuse to pay child support as ordered by a court. A Cass County man will be on probation for five years after pleading guilty to attempted felony nonsupport related to his failure to pay the support required for his children. The court has also required the man to pay a minimum of $400 per month towards past and present child support. His obligation exceeds $15,000 after failing to pay child support for several years. He will also have to take a class designed to encourage people on probation to find gainful employment. Parents concerned about the availability of child support may seek to collect what they need with a legal action. Legal representation can help people in family court and other venues where these issues are sorted out. Attorneys can help parents shape their arguments and provide evidence for arguments to collect child support.