Best Child Support Lawyers in Australia

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Ghothane Lawyers Pty Ltd
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2019
10 people in their team
English
We Are Passionate About LawWe enjoy handling challenging legal matters. Our passion for law drives us to go the extra mile to exceed your expectations.Make Law SimplerLaw is complex. Our skillful lawyers will help you understand the law relevant to your legal issues. We will explain the steps and...
Jameson Law
Parramatta, Australia

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
About us โ˜‘ Personal injury โ˜‘ Immigration Law  โ˜‘ Criminal Law โ˜‘ Traffic Law โ˜‘ Wills and Estate โ˜‘ Commercial โ˜‘ Civil โœ… Best Personal Injury lawyer Sydney Our knowledge and experience means we can claim via more avenues and always claim the...
MKI Legal
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2012
English
MKI Legal is a trusted law firm based in Australia, renowned for its deep expertise in employment and family law. The firmโ€™s team of dedicated lawyers brings extensive experience to every case, offering informed and strategic solutions to individuals and businesses alike. MKI Legalโ€™s practice...
Smart Legal
Loganholme, Australia

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
English
The Smart Legal StoryWith over 40 yearsโ€™ experience, between our office, Smart Legal is a boutique law firm specialising in a wide range of general practice matters.We service the thriving area of Brisbane, Logan and the Gold Coast in all matters including:โ€ข General Legal Adviceโ€ข Wills and...
City Lawyers & Consultants
Chatswood, Australia

Founded in 2001
10 people in their team
English
About Us We are a Sydney based law firm providing service to clients across NSW. Our senior lawyers have knowledge and expertise to resolve claims cost effectively so our clients could receive substantial payouts.We achieve bigger compensation amounts for our clients because the claims in our...
Shannon Bodeker & Associate
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2002
11 people in their team
English
About UsPractising family law in Perth for more than 21 yearsBodekers Family Lawyers & Mediators was established in 2002. Our Legal Practitioner Director Shannon Bodeker has practised exclusively and extensively in Family Law for over 21 years.We provide personalised, cost-effective family law...
AMT Lawyers and Associates
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2010
1,000 people in their team
AMT Lawyers and Associates, based in Melbourne, specializes in Conveyancing Law. We also excel in Criminal, Divorce, and Family Law. Our team of experienced lawyers provides tailored legal services to individuals and corporations alike. With a strong commitment to justice, we offer professional...
Wallace Wilkinson & Webster
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 1976
16 people in their team
English
Our Firm Wallace Wilkinson & Webster is a leading Hobart-based legal practice providing specialist services in all areas of the law.From individuals and small business to some of Australiaโ€™s largest public companies, our clients include families, local businesses, banks and credit...
Berck Solicitors
Brisbane, Australia

Founded in 1992
10 people in their team
English
Welcome to Berck SolicitorsOur mission is to provide you with prompt and easy to understand legal advice to reduce the emotional and financial stress that often comes with Family Law disputes. We guarantee you professionalism and integrity at a very competitive rate.With our 30 year reputation in...
CLT Family Law

CLT Family Law

15 minutes Free Consultation
Townsville, Australia

Founded in 2024
1 person in their team
English
CLT Family Law offers a local service to clients living in Townsville and surrounds. There is no need to engage Brisbane lawyers to obtain professional quality legal advice and service. CLT Family Law specialises in family law, with Carmel Torney being an Accredited Family Law Specialist. We aim to...
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About Child Support Law in Australia

Child Support in Australia is designed to ensure that both parents contribute financially to the upbringing of their children following separation or divorce. The Australian Government, through Services Australia, administers the Child Support Scheme, which assists in calculating and collecting child support payments. This ensures children receive the necessary financial support for their well-being and development.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating child support arrangements can be complex and emotionally challenging. Common situations where legal help might be required include:

  • Disputes regarding the amount of child support payments.
  • Changes in circumstances, such as changes in income, which may necessitate an adjustment in payments.
  • Concerns about non-compliance or enforcement of child support agreements.
  • Negotiating agreements outside the formula assessments provided by Services Australia.
  • Ensuring agreements are legally binding and protect your and your children's interests.

Local Laws Overview

Child support in Australia is governed by the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989 and the Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988. Key aspects include:

  • Assessment Formula: Child support is generally calculated using an income-shares model. Factors like each parent's income, the number of children, and the time each parent spends with the children are considered.
  • Agreements: Parents can make private arrangements or opt for legally binding agreements such as Limited or Binding Child Support Agreements.
  • Collection Options: Parents can use private collect, where payments are made directly between parents, or opt for services like the Child Support Collect provided by the government.
  • Enforcement: There are mechanisms to enforce child support payments, including wage garnishment and tax refund intercepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is child support?

Child support is a financial contribution from the non-custodial parent to help cover the child's living expenses after separation or divorce.

How is child support calculated?

The assessment includes incomes of both parents, the number of dependent children, and the care percentage each parent provides.

Can child support agreements be altered?

Yes, changes in circumstances may warrant a reassessment. The parties can also agree to amend their private arrangements or apply for a change through Services Australia.

What happens if a parent fails to pay child support?

Services Australia can enforce payments through various methods, such as garnishing wages or withdrawing amounts from tax refunds.

What are the types of child support agreements?

Parents can have Limited Child Support Agreements, Binding Child Support Agreements, or opt for informal arrangements without formal registration.

How long does child support last?

Typically, child support continues until the child turns 18, finishes secondary school, or under specific circumstances if both parties agree.

Can grandparents or other relatives apply for child support?

Yes, non-parent carers like grandparents can apply for child support if they are the primary caregivers of the child.

What is a Binding Child Support Agreement?

This is a legally enforceable document where both parties agree on the amount and terms of child support, requiring formal legal advice for validity.

Do child support payments affect government benefits?

Yes, receiving child support can impact the amount of Family Tax Benefit and other government support payments.

Is legal advice necessary for child support issues?

While not mandatory, legal advice can provide clarity, ensure fair agreements, and help navigate disputes or complex circumstances.

Additional Resources

Here are resources and bodies you can consult for help with child support issues:

  • Services Australia: The government body responsible for administering the Child Support Scheme.
  • Australian Family Courts: For legal disputes related to child support agreements and enforcement.
  • Legal Aid: Provides free legal services and advice for eligible individuals.
  • Community Legal Centres: Offer free or low-cost legal advice and support.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in Child Support, consider the following steps:

  1. Research and Gather Information: Understand your rights and obligations under the current child support system.
  2. Consult a Lawyer: Seek expert legal advice to explore options, ensure fair agreements, and address complex disputes.
  3. Visit Services Australia: For assessments, payments information, or to initiate a child support case.
  4. Use Mediation Services: Consider family mediation services as a first step to resolve disputes amicably.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Child Support, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

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