Best Child Support Lawyers in Göttingen

About Child Support Law in Göttingen, Germany

Child support law in Göttingen, Germany, governs the financial responsibilities of parents towards their children after a separation or divorce. The primary goal of these laws is to ensure that children receive adequate financial support regardless of whether their parents are together. Child support includes costs for housing, food, education, healthcare, and clothing. Both parents are typically responsible for supporting their child, but the parent who does not live with the child usually pays a monetary contribution to the parent who is providing day-to-day care.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations where seeking legal advice or representation is recommended in child support cases in Göttingen. You may need a lawyer if:

• There are disputes about the amount of child support owed.
• You need assistance calculating or enforcing child support payments.
• One parent fails to pay the agreed or court-ordered child support.
• You are unsure about your legal rights or obligations as either the paying or receiving parent.
• You are facing changes in financial circumstances and want to modify existing child support arrangements.
• International elements complicate the case, such as one parent moving abroad.
• You need help understanding German child support law or court orders.

A lawyer can guide you through the legal procedures, help negotiate settlements, and protect your interests and those of your child.

Local Laws Overview

Child support in Göttingen is governed by federal German law, primarily the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB - German Civil Code). Key points of the law include:

• The duty to provide child support generally applies to both parents until the child reaches legal adulthood or completes their first vocational education or degree.
• The "Düsseldorfer Tabelle" is a standardized guideline used throughout Germany, including Göttingen, for calculating the amount of child support based on the paying parent's income and number of children.
• Child support is separate from spousal maintenance or alimony.
• The Jugendamt (Youth Welfare Office) can assist with establishing and collecting child support claims.
• Non-custodial parents are generally required to provide financial support, while custodial parents provide for the child’s care through daily living expenses and upbringing.
• Child support obligations can be enforced through court action if necessary.
• In some cases, adjustments can be made if the financial circumstances of either parent change significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the "Düsseldorfer Tabelle" and how is it used in Göttingen?

The Düsseldorfer Tabelle is a set of guidelines published by German courts to standardize child support payments based on the paying parent's income and the number of children. It is used in Göttingen and across Germany as the basis for calculating minimum child support.

How long do parents have to pay child support in Germany?

Generally, child support is paid until the child is 18 years old or as long as they are pursuing initial vocational training or university education without unreasonable delay.

What can I do if my ex-partner stops paying child support?

You can contact the Jugendamt (Youth Welfare Office) for assistance. In some cases, they can provide an advance on child support payments and pursue the defaulting parent for reimbursement. Legal action through the family court is also possible.

How is child support enforced in Göttingen?

If voluntary payments are not made, a court order can be obtained to enforce child support. This order can enable wage garnishment or seize assets if necessary.

Can child support obligations be changed?

Yes, if there is a significant change in either parent’s financial situation or if the needs of the child change, you can request a modification through the court or with assistance from the Jugendamt.

Does child support include expenses for childcare and education?

Yes, child support is intended to cover all living expenses, including food, housing, clothing, education, and appropriate recreational activities.

What is the role of the Jugendamt in child support cases?

The Jugendamt helps parents obtain and enforce child support payments. They can offer mediation, calculate support based on the Düsseldorfer Tabelle, and take steps to secure payments if a parent defaults.

Can parents agree on a child support amount outside of court?

Yes, parents can agree privately on child support payments. However, it is recommended to have the agreement reviewed and formally certified (beurkunden) by the Jugendamt or a notary for enforceability.

Is child support tax-deductible in Germany?

Child support is generally not tax-deductible for the paying parent. However, there may be some exceptions or related tax benefits. A tax advisor can provide specific guidance.

What happens if a parent lives abroad?

Enforcing child support across borders can be more complex, but Germany is part of several international agreements that help ensure payments can be pursued from parents living abroad with the help of authorities and courts.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance, the following organizations and authorities in Göttingen and Germany provide help with child support matters:

• Jugendamt Göttingen (Youth Welfare Office) - Provides advice, calculates child support, and helps enforce payments.
• Familiengericht Göttingen (Family Court) - Handles legal disputes about maintenance and enforcement.
• Lawyer specializing in family law - Offers personalized legal advice and court representation.
• Caritas Association and other social services - Offer counseling and support for families.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with child support in Göttingen, consider the following steps:

• Gather all relevant documents including income statements, court orders, and previous correspondence.
• Contact the Jugendamt for advice and assistance with calculations and enforcement.
• Consult with a lawyer who specializes in family law to understand your rights and options.
• If necessary, initiate court proceedings to resolve disputes or enforce payment.
• Stay informed about any changes to child support laws or guidelines that may affect your situation.

Taking informed action early can help protect your interests and ensure that your child’s needs are met. Legal professionals and local authorities are available to support you throughout the process.