Best Child Support Lawyers in Parramatta

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Jameson Law

Jameson Law

Parramatta, Australia

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
About us ☑ Personal injury ☑ Immigration Law  ☑ Criminal Law ☑ Traffic Law ☑ Wills and Estate ☑...
English

About Child Support Law in Parramatta, Australia

Child support in Parramatta, Australia, functions under the federal Child Support Agency. It is designed to maintain the shared financial responsibility of parents towards their children after separation or divorce. This support can encompass regular payments, lump sum payments, or non-cash payments such as school fees and health care costs. The calculation of payments is based on both parents' income, the number of children involved, and the level of care provided by each parent.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While the Child Support Agency usually handles matters of child support, there may be situations where legal advice is required. These might include when parents cannot agree on the correct amount of child support, when one parent refuses to pay, or when a parent disputes the assessment by the Child Support Agency. A lawyer can provide professional and impartial advice, and advocacy if required, to help you navigate such situations.

Local Laws Overview

Local laws concerning child support in Parramatta adhere to the nationwide provisions of the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989. Key features of these laws include the obligation of both parents to financially provide for their child, the consideration of parents' income, children's ages and cost of living, and the parents' level of care. Both parents can agree on private terms or follow the administrative assessment by the Child Support Agency. Any disagreements can ideally be resolved through mediation or may require court intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a parent refuses to pay child support?

If a parent refuses to pay, the Child Support Agency has the power to enforce payments through a range of methods, including the garnishing of tax refunds or wages, recovery from bank accounts, or legal action.

Can child support be changed?

Yes, child support can be reviewed and adjusted periodically by submitting a change of circumstances to the Child Support Agency. Alternatively, parents can mutually agree on a Change of Assessment.

What is included in child support?

Apart from regular payments, child support can also include non-cash payments like school fees, expenses for medical needs, etc.

Until what age does child support continue?

Child support is generally payable until the child turns 18 years. However, may extend past 18 if the child is still in secondary school or has special needs.

Can child support cover extra-curricular activities?

This depends on the agreement between the parents. Extra costs for activities can be considered in the child support if both parents agree.

Additional Resources

Additional resources include Child Support Agency and Family Court of Australia websites, community legal centres, and legal aid services in Parramatta, Australia.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with child support, the first step is to get legal advice from a qualified family law practitioner. They can help you understand your rights, draft necessary documents, represent you in court, and provide guidance through the process. Remember to have all important documents and information related to income, assets, debts, and children's needs at hand before your consultation.

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.