Best Child Support Lawyers in New Zealand

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Burley Castle Hawkins Law Limited

Burley Castle Hawkins Law Limited

Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2020
10 people in their team
Legal ServicesWhether its legal expertise covering Company & Commercial Law, Employment Law, Civil Litigation (including disputes), Family &...
Māori
English
Jeremy Sutton

Jeremy Sutton

Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
With over 30 combined years of experience, Jeremy Sutton and his team assists with high net worth, financially complex divorce cases. He has a...
Māori
English
Harris Tate Lawyers

Harris Tate Lawyers

Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
Originally founded by Ross Harris in 1980 before partnering with Alan Tate in 1995, Harris Tate has become one of Tauranga’s most trusted law firms...
Māori
English
Gault Mitchell Law

Gault Mitchell Law

Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
OUR FIRMOur winning approach is straightforward.We build strong client relationships founded on a practical mindset coupled with technical skill and...
Māori
English
Morrison Kent

Morrison Kent

Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
200 people in their team
AboutAt Morrison Kent we have a true commitment to quality service and we have the talent to achieve outstanding results. Our client relationships...
Māori
English
Michael J Toner Solicitor

Michael J Toner Solicitor

Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1993
50 people in their team
Here, at Toner Law, we pride ourselves in being a down to earth, friendly and approachable team. We are far from a big corporate firm, and the...
Māori
English
Grayson Clements

Grayson Clements

Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
As trusted advisors to successful people and businesses in good times and bad, we champion our clients' interests, locally and globally. We are proud...
Māori
English
Linwood Law

Linwood Law

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Linwood Law Limited is a firm of lawyers committed to providing a professional and friendly service to our clients. “A Lifetime of...
Māori
English
Brook Law

Brook Law

Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
About Brook LawWe are a Hamilton based Law Firm located at the Northern End of the Central Business District where easy parking is available.We have...
Māori
English
Holland Beckett Law

Holland Beckett Law

Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Holland Beckett Law is a Bay of Plenty wide law firm with offices in Tauranga, Rotorua, Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki.Holland Beckett Law is a Bay of...
Māori
English
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About Child Support Law in New Zealand

Child Support in New Zealand is governed by the Child Support Act 1991. The purpose of this law is to ensure that both parents contribute financially to the upbringing of their children, regardless of whether they are living together or apart. The Child Support system is administered by Inland Revenue, and they calculate, collect, and distribute child support payments.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for child support issues in situations such as disputes over paternity, disagreements on the amount of child support to be paid, changes in financial circumstances, or enforcement of child support orders. A lawyer can provide legal advice, assist with negotiations, represent you in court, and ensure your rights and the rights of your children are protected.

Local Laws Overview

In New Zealand, child support is calculated based on the income of both parents, the number of children involved, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children. The Child Support formula takes into account various factors such as age of children, care arrangements, and living expenses. Parents are required to disclose their income to Inland Revenue annually for child support assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is child support calculated in New Zealand?

Child support is calculated based on the income of both parents, the number of children, and care arrangements. Inland Revenue uses a formula to determine the amount to be paid.

2. Can child support payments be changed?

Child support payments can be reviewed and changed if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as loss of income or increase in care responsibilities.

3. What if the other parent doesn't pay child support?

If the other parent fails to pay child support, Inland Revenue can take enforcement actions such as deducting from their wages or tax refunds, or taking legal action.

4. Can child support be backdated?

Child support payments can be backdated to the date of application, but not beyond that. It's important to apply for child support as soon as possible.

5. Can child support orders be enforced if one parent lives overseas?

Yes, child support orders can be enforced against a parent living overseas through reciprocal arrangements with other countries.

6. Can child support payments be waived?

Child support payments cannot be waived or discharged unless there are exceptional circumstances. It's important to seek legal advice in such situations.

7. What if I disagree with the child support assessment?

If you disagree with the child support assessment, you can apply for a review with Inland Revenue. If you are still unsatisfied, you can appeal to the Family Court.

8. How long do I have to pay child support?

You are required to pay child support until the child turns 19 years old, or 20 years old if they are still in secondary school or in a tertiary education course.

9. Can child support be paid in a lump sum?

Child support is typically paid periodically, but a lump sum payment can be agreed upon by both parents if it's in the best interest of the child.

10. Can child support payments be tax deductible?

No, child support payments are not tax deductible for the paying parent, and they are not treated as income for the receiving parent.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance with child support in New Zealand, you can visit the Inland Revenue website or contact a family lawyer for legal advice and representation.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with child support issues, it's recommended to consult with a family lawyer who has experience in this area of law. They can guide you through the process, represent you in negotiations or court proceedings, and ensure your rights and the rights of your children are protected.

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.