Child support payments may need to be made from one parent or carer to another after a divorce or separation, and once custody has been arranged formally. This money is to help pay for the care of a child, including schooling, clothes, day-to-day expenses, and so on.

Either parent can make a claim for an assessment. A private agreement can replace formal child support payments, or specific payments can be made – school fees, medical expenses, extracurricular activities, etc, instead of a cash payment.

Child support is set out by a specific formula created by the Child Support Agency. You can find estimates of your entitlements at their website. The formula includes the cost of raising children and incomes from both parents, and the time and care provided by each parent. They make an assessment, then establish who pays whom, and showing a balance owed.

The Agency often administers the child support payments, so neither parent is responsible for the delivery of the money. A private payment can be made, however.

Child support ends when the child turns 18, or if the child is adopted or becomes a ‘member of a couple’.

Child support payments can be high and cause some distress to one or both parents, and one of you may object to the payment amount. You can raise your objection with the court, and apply for a change in assessment. This must be done 28 days after the initial assessment. There are some avenues for appeal, so talk to us for your options.

If there is a question of paternity, a DNA test should be taken. If you aren’t sure what your next step should be, contact Vanessa Ash for expert legal advice.

Write your own story. Call Vanessa Ash and Associates today.