Best Child Support Lawyers in Forster

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Stacks Collins Thompson

Stacks Collins Thompson

Forster, Australia

Founded in 1931
500 people in their team
About usStacks Law Firm is a dynamic group of law firms which together offer a wide range of legal services throughout NSW, QLD and ACT. Each firm is...
English

About Child Support Law in Forster, Australia

Child support laws in Forster, Australia follow the national scheme as enumerated by the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989. The child support scheme provides protection and assistance to children of separated or divorced parents and supports the idea that both parents are responsible for the financial wellbeing of their children. The amount of child support one might pay or receive heavily depends on individual income, the cost of raising a child, and the time each parent spends with the child.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Child support matters can often be complex due to the multiple variables that need to be considered. These include factors like family income, number of children, special needs of the child, and care arrangements. Legal advisement is recommended during events such as negotiating or drafting child support agreements, disputes over child support payments, handling cases of overseas child support, and when seeking to change the current child support arrangements. A lawyer with expertise in child support can ensure that your rights are protected, and your children's needs are properly accounted for.

Local Laws Overview

The local laws in Forster follow the Australian legislative scheme for child support. Parents must financially support their children, and this principle is upheld even if the parents were never married, or if the paying parent lives in another country. The amount of support required is calculated using the Child Support Formula, which takes into account both parents' incomes, the children's ages, the costs of raising children, and the living arrangements of the children. Applications for child support are typically done through the Department of Human Services.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply for child support if I and my child live in Forster, but the other parent lives overseas?

Yes, Australia has international child support agreements with many countries. If your child's other parent lives in one of these countries, you can likely still apply for child support.

2. How is the amount of child support determined?

The amount of child support is determined by the Child Support Formula. It accounts for factors such as both parents' income, the number and ages of children, the cost of raising children, and time spent by each parent with the children.

3. Can I make a private agreement with the other parent about child support?

Yes, you have the option to make a private agreement regarding child support, but it is recommended to get it vetted by legal professionals to ensure fairness and compliance with laws.

4. What happens if the other parent is not paying child support?

In cases where a parent is not paying child support, the Department of Human Services can help. They have powers to deduct payments from wages, intercept tax refunds, and can even take serious actions for unpaid child support.

5. Can the existing child support arrangement be changed?

Yes, changes in circumstances like a significant change in income, change in the cost of raising a child, or any changes regarding the care of the child, can lead to a review and possible alteration of the arrangement.

Additional Resources

You can seek additional help and information from the Department of Human Services (Child Support), the Family Court of Australia, and legal aid services in your area. Many of these resources provide online assistance and informational materials regarding child support.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in child support, start by collecting all relevant information including incomes, costs of raising your child(ren), and the current care arrangements. Then, seek out a legal consultation. For a lawyer specialized in Family Law, particularly child support, consider contacting the Law Society of New South Wales to find a suitable law practice in the Forster region.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.