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The Child Support Law in London comes under the jurisdiction of UK national law and is designed to ensure that both parents share responsibility for their child’s upbringing financially, irrespective of whether they live with them. The Child Maintenance Service (CMS) is the government body that oversees this process, with payment amounts calculated based on each parent's income.
In many cases, parents can arrange child support on their own, but there are complex circumstances where legal assistance is crucial. If the parents can't reach an agreement, income needs to be ascertained, or multinational elements need consideration, a lawyer is valuable. Lawyers can also step in when Child Maintenance Service decisions are unfair or incorrect, or when one parent refuses to pay the agreed or mandated support.
In London and the wider UK, child support is generally required until the child turns 16, or until 20 if they are enrolled in approved education or training. The non-resident parent is typically obligated to pay a certain amount to the parent who primarily cares for the child. The amount paid depends on the payer's income, the number of nights the child spends with each parent, and the number of children involved.
Usually, the non-residential parent pays child support to the parent with primary custody, ensuring both parents contribute to the child's upbringing.
If a parent refuses or fails to pay child support, the Child Maintenance Service can take enforcement action, ranging from direct withdrawal from their wages to court enforcement.
Yes, changes in circumstances like income or living arrangements can result in a review and potential adjustment of the child support order.
In the UK, child support is generally paid until the child reaches 16 or 20 if they're in approved education or training.
Generally, step-children are not included unless the step-parent legally adopts the child.
You might find valuable resources at Family Rights Group, National Family Mediation, and the Child Law Advice. The Child Maintenance Service can also provide useful information in terms of official child support calculations and enforcement.
If you need legal assistance with child support, your first step should be to find a solicitor specialising in family law. They can review your case, explain your rights and obligations, and guide you through the process. Additionally, consider using mediation services to try and reach an amicable agreement with the other parent.
