Mission Statement
"Among the NiMiiPuu, children are seen as gifts from the Creator. They represent the future of the Nez Perce Tribe and a link to the values of our culture. In our language, there is no word for orphan. Each child is the center of a circle with deep relationships to their biological parents, their blood relatives and fellow tribal members. Adults must put the children first to ensure they are properly nurtured and developed."
Approach
The Nez Perce Tribe Child Support Enforcement Program (CSEP) approach is to begin the child support process with mediation (that includes people with responsibility for the care of the child). Drawing on cultural values and Nez Perce Tribal code we will attempt to reach agreement on the child support amount for the child and fair support structures for the wellbeing of the child. CSEP will work cooperatively with tribal court procedures to approve agreements and to arbitrate when no agreement has been reached.
CSEP will do everything in its power to assist the paying parties to understand:
- The process of mediated child support agreements
- The role of the court in enforcing child support
- Financial obligations and how to meet those obligations
- Alternative methods of payment
- Cooperative and respectful parenting skills
- The value of role models
- The consequences of not meeting parenting obligations
Goals
To protect the wellbeing of the children on the Nez Perce reservation through the establishment and enforcement of child support orders; and to promote the wellbeing of children in partnership with parents and community and to improve family stability by preserving our way of life, family lineage, customs, traditions, and language.
Description of Services
- Help find a non-custodial parent
- Establish paternity for a child
- Establish an order for financial and/or medical support
- Collect child support payments
- Modify your present child support order
- Assist with mediation services and information regarding legal language and court proceedings
The Nez Perce Tribe IV-D Child Support Enforcement Program (CSEP) has been at work since 2009 and accepts applications for services for all who live and/or work on the Nez Perce Resevation regardless of tribal or non-tribal status.
Newsletters
Brochures
"How to Apply for Child Support Services"
"Child Support" Info for Non-Custodial Parents
"Child Support Enforcement Program & Employers"