Root v. Root

CROW, Presiding Judge.

This appeal presents an issue of first impression in Missouri.

The marriage of Nila Jean Root (“Nila”) and Robert James Root (“Robert”) was dissolved June 8, 1984, by decree of the Circuit Court of Laclede County, Missouri. The decree awarded Nila custody of the parties’ two minor children, and ordered Robert to pay Nila child support of $100 per month per child.

Robert failed to pay. Nila, aided by the Child Support Enforcement Unit, Division of Family Services, Missouri Department of Social Services, had two garnishments issued in 1986, and two more issued in 1987.…