Best Child Support Lawyers in Pakenham Upper

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Galbally & O'Bryan

Galbally & O'Bryan

Pakenham Upper, Australia

Founded in 1935
15 people in their team
Founded in 1935, Galbally & O’Bryan is one of Victoria’s leading law firms. We have a reputation for providing ethical, high-quality personal...
English

About Child Support Law in Pakenham Upper, Australia

Child support law in Pakenham Upper, Australia, is governed by the Department of Human Services under the Australian government's child support scheme to ensure children receive financial support from their parents. It's designed to secure the child's welfare and best interests, especially if parents are separated or divorced. Payments may cover living costs, healthcare, education, and other necessities.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal guidance is beneficial when dealing with child support matters. Situations that might necessitate an attorney include: disagreements about the child's living arrangements, disputed paternity, calculation of payment amounts, enforcing unpaid child support, and appealing decisions made by the Department of Human Services. Expert knowledge of child support law can assist in understanding legal duties, rights, and processes while ensuring that the best interests of the child remain paramount.

Local Laws Overview

The Child Support Assessment Act 1989 and the Family Law Act 1975 are key legislations governing child support matters in Pakenham Upper, Australia. Parents have a duty to maintain their children, the amount of which is often calculated by assessing each parent's income, the cost of raising a child, and the time spent with the child by each parent. Child support may be formally managed, privately handled, or carried out through court-ordered arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is child support calculated?

The Department of Human Services uses a complex formula to calculate child support, factoring the income of both parents, the cost of raising the children, and time spent with the children.

2. Can I dispute a child support assessment?

Yes, either parent can challenge an assessment by submitting an application within 28 days of the decision. It's advisable to seek legal counsel for this process.

3. What happens if child support is not paid?

If a parent fails to pay child support, the Department of Human Services can enforce payments by collecting money directly from the parent's bank account, wages, or tax returns.

4. Can I make private child support arrangements?

Yes, parents can make private agreements about child support. However, these need to meet certain requirements to be recognised by law.

5. Does child support impact Family Tax Benefit payments?

Yes, the amount received in the Family Tax Benefit Part A may be affected by the amount of child support a person receives or pays.

Additional Resources

The Department of Human Services and its Child Support Guide are primary resources for understanding child support law in Australia. The Family Court of Australia and organisations like the Legal Aid Commission also provide resources and legal advice on child support matters.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with child support issues, it's important to find a local child support lawyer to guide you. Compile any relevant documentation like income statements, custody agreements and correspondences with the other parent, and then book a consultation. This will aid better understanding of your situation and provide informed advice for your next steps.

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.