We can help you understand your rights and obligations around child support
We are able to assist you in navigating your way through the issue of child support, whether you:
- Have reached an agreement with your former spouse in relation to their payment of child-related expenses, including school fees and wish to formalise the agreement
- Do not agree to an Assessment undertaken by the Child Support Agency
- Require assistance in responding to an Objection made by your former spouse to an Assessment undertaken by the Child Support Agency
If you and your former spouse have reached an agreement in relation to child support, we can assist in preparing a Child Support Agreement. Agreements are termed Limited Child Support Agreement and a Binding Child Support Agreement. The differences are the limited agreement is for a short-term period, usually three years and is for payments in addition to child support already paid.
A Binding Child Support Agreement will continue until the child turns 18 or completes his or her education. It is imperative that you seek legal advice before entering into the Binding Child Support Agreement to ensure it is valid.
You cannot force another party to pay more than what the child support agency assesses that party should pay. However, you can enforce a Binding or Limited Child Support Agreement through the Courts, if the other party reneges on the agreement.
Call us for a confidential and free 15-minute telephone consultation about your family law matter
Our team of Gold Coast and Logan family lawyers are experienced and approachable. Contact Us for a 15-minute free telephone consultation where you can ask us questions and receive expert family law advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is a Child Support Lawyer?
A child support lawyer is a legal professional who specialises in handling cases related to child support. They provide legal advice and representation to clients seeking to establish, modify, or enforce child support obligations. They may also assist with issues related to child custody.
2. Why Would I Need a Child Support Lawyer?
You may need a child support lawyer if you are involved in a dispute over child support with your child’s other parent. A child support lawyer can also assist with enforcing or modifying existing child support orders and help you understand your legal rights and obligations related to child support.
3. What Are the Responsibilities of a Child Support Lawyer?
The responsibilities of a child support lawyer may include the following:
- Providing legal advice and representation to clients in child support cases;
- Drafting legal documents such as child support agreements;
- Negotiating settlements with the other party;
- Representing clients in court hearings and mediation sessions.
4. What Factors Are Considered When Determining Child Support Payments?
In Australia, child support payments are determined based on several factors, including each parent’s income, the number and ages of the children, the costs of caring for the children and the number of nights the children are in each parent’s care. The Child Support Agency uses a formula to calculate child support payments, considering these factors.
