What is a deadbeat mom?

A deadbeat mom is a mother who does not make child support payments after being ordered to do so by a court of law. Child support is not dependent on visitation rights. A deadbeat mom still has the legal right to visit her children, according to About.com.

While deadbeat moms are not as common as deadbeat dads, they are becoming increasingly common. The state can take action against deadbeat moms, such as refusing travel documents or taking a share of unemployment compensation. Deadbeat moms who cannot make child support payments due to lack of funds may need a check on earnings and the support level adjusted to reflect current income.