Best Child Support Lawyers in Akdeniz

About Child Support Law in Akdeniz, Turkey

Child support, known as "nafaka" in Turkish law, refers to the financial assistance that a parent is required to provide for their child’s upbringing following a separation, divorce, or when the parents are unmarried. In Akdeniz, Turkey, this obligation aims to ensure that children receive adequate financial support to meet their basic needs such as food, shelter, education, and healthcare, regardless of their parents' relationship status. Turkish Family Law regulates how child support is calculated, enforced, and modified, with the best interests of the child as the central concern.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking legal advice in child support matters is highly recommended, especially in the following situations:

• Determining how much child support should be paid or received.
• Resolving disputes over unpaid or insufficient child support payments.
• Negotiating or modifying existing child support agreements due to changes in circumstances, such as income or custody arrangements.
• Enforcing court-ordered child support if the paying parent is not complying.
• Understanding your legal rights and responsibilities if you are an unmarried or divorced parent.
• Complicated financial situations, such as self-employment or foreign income.

Local Laws Overview

Child support in Akdeniz is governed by the Turkish Civil Code and associated regulations. Here are some key aspects:

• Both parents share the responsibility of supporting their child monetarily, according to their financial capacities and the child's needs.
• The parent not living with the child (the non-custodial parent) is generally required to pay child support.
• The amount of child support is determined by the court, considering factors like the child’s needs, the parents’ earning capacity, and lifestyle.
• Child support usually continues until the child turns 18, but can be extended if the child continues education or is unable to support themselves due to disability.
• Failing to pay court-ordered child support can result in legal action, including wage garnishment and enforcement proceedings.
• Either parent can apply to modify the amount if substantial changes occur in financial or personal circumstances.
• International treaties may apply for cross-border enforcement when a parent lives abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is child support (nafaka) in Turkey?

Child support ("nafaka") is a legal obligation requiring a parent to pay financial support for the care, education, health, and general well-being of their child, especially after divorce or separation.

Who can apply for child support in Akdeniz, Turkey?

The custodial parent (the parent with whom the child lives) or the child through a legal representative can apply for child support. In some cases, relatives or state authorities may also file for support on behalf of the child.

How is the amount of child support calculated?

Courts consider the child's needs, both parents’ economic situations, living conditions, and the child’s standard of living prior to separation. There is no fixed amount; each case is evaluated individually.

What happens if a parent does not pay child support?

Failure to pay court-ordered child support can lead to enforcement actions, such as wage garnishment, asset seizure, travel bans, or even imprisonment for persistent non-payment.

Can child support be modified after the court decision?

Yes. Child support can be increased, decreased, or terminated if there is a substantial change in the child's needs or the parents’ financial situations. Applications for modification must be made to the court.

Until what age is child support paid?

Usually, child support is paid until the child turns 18. However, payments may continue if the child is in full-time education or is unable to support themselves due to health reasons.

Is it possible to receive child support if the non-custodial parent lives abroad?

Yes, Turkey is party to some international agreements that facilitate the enforcement of child support orders abroad. Legal support may be needed to pursue claims in other countries.

Do mothers always get child support, or can fathers receive it too?

Either parent, regardless of gender, can receive child support if they are the custodial parent and the child lives with them.

Is child support taxable income in Turkey?

Child support payments are not considered taxable income for the recipient, nor are they tax-deductible for the payer.

Can child support include additional expenses?

Yes. In addition to basic support, the court may order extra payments for educational, health, and extraordinary expenses if necessary.

Additional Resources

Here are some resources and organizations in Akdeniz, Turkey, that can assist you with child support issues:

• Family Courts (Aile Mahkemeleri): The primary authority for applying, modifying, or enforcing child support orders.
• Akdeniz Social Services Directorate (Akdeniz Sosyal Hizmetler Müdürlüğü): Can offer guidance and support for children and families in need.
• Bar Associations (Barolar Birliği): Provide referrals to lawyers specializing in family law, including child support cases.
• Legal Aid Offices (Adli Yardım): Eligible individuals with limited financial means may access free or subsidized legal advice and representation.
• Child Rights Organizations: Non-governmental organizations advocate for children’s welfare and provide support to families navigating the legal system.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with child support in Akdeniz, Turkey, consider the following steps:

1. Gather all relevant documents, such as divorce decrees, birth certificates, proof of income, and any previous correspondence about child support.
2. Contact the Family Court or a local lawyer specializing in family law to discuss your circumstances.
3. If you cannot afford a lawyer, reach out to the local Bar Association or Legal Aid Office to check your eligibility for legal assistance.
4. Prepare a list of questions and concerns for your initial consultation to make the best use of your time with a legal professional.
5. Follow through with any legal procedures or documentation requested by your lawyer or the court.
6. Stay informed about your case status and keep records of all communications and payments.