Best Child Support Lawyers in Pori

About Child Support Law in Pori, Finland

Child support, known as "elatusapu" in Finnish, is a legal obligation for parents to financially contribute to their children's upbringing after separation or divorce. In Pori, as in the rest of Finland, both parents are responsible for supporting their children according to their abilities. Child support arrangements are designed to ensure that children's basic needs, including housing, education, healthcare, and daily expenses, are met even if their parents live apart. The child’s welfare is always the central consideration in any child support decision.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many parents are able to amicably agree on child support, there are situations where seeking legal advice becomes necessary. Common reasons include disputes over the amount of support, changes in the parents’ financial situation, inability to locate or communicate with the other parent, or concerns about the enforcement of support payments. Lawyers can also help draft legally binding agreements, represent you in negotiations or court proceedings, and ensure that all arrangements comply with Finnish law. Having a legal expert on your side is especially valuable when dealing with complex financial matters, suspected non-compliance, or cross-border support cases.

Local Laws Overview

Child support law in Pori falls under the Finnish Act on Child Maintenance (Laki lapsen elatuksesta 704/1975). Key aspects include:

• Both parents are required to contribute based on their financial capacity
• Child support can be agreed on privately, usually with assistance from the municipal child welfare officer ("elatusapuasioiden sosiaaliohjaaja")
• If no agreement is reached, the matter can be taken to the local district court ("käräjäoikeus") for a decision
• The amount of support depends on factors including parents’ income, the child’s needs, custody arrangements, and special circumstances (for example, medical needs or education)
• Support is usually paid monthly until the child turns 18, but can be extended if the child continues upper secondary education
• Failure to pay may result in enforcement actions through the National Enforcement Authority ("Ulosottolaitos")

Frequently Asked Questions

What is child support and who can claim it in Pori?

Child support is a financial contribution from one parent to another for the costs connected to raising a child. Any parent or legal guardian with custody of the child can claim support from the other parent.

How is the amount of child support determined?

The amount is based on the child’s needs and the parents’ income and financial situation. There is a national guideline, but the amount can be adjusted to fit individual circumstances.

Can I agree on child support without going to court?

Yes, parents are encouraged to reach an agreement, preferably with assistance from the municipal child welfare officer. Written agreements can be made official and enforceable by registering them with social services.

What should I do if the other parent stops paying child support?

If payments are not made, you can request enforcement through the National Enforcement Authority. You may also apply for advanced maintenance allowance from Kela, which can provide temporary financial relief while collection is ongoing.

How long does child support last in Finland?

Normally, child support is paid until the child turns 18. Support can be extended if the child continues full time upper secondary studies, generally up to the age of 21.

What happens if my financial situation changes?

If your income significantly increases or decreases or if there is a major change in your circumstances, you can seek a modification of the child support arrangement, either by mutual agreement or through the court.

Is child support tax free?

Received child support is tax free for the recipient. However, the parent paying support cannot deduct it from their taxable income.

What if the other parent lives abroad?

International child support cases are managed with the assistance of social services and may also involve the Ministry of Justice. Finland has agreements with several countries to enforce support claims across borders.

Can child support agreements be changed after being set?

Yes, child support agreements can be modified if there is a significant change in the parents’ financial situation or the needs of the child.

Do I need a lawyer to handle my child support case?

You are not required to hire a lawyer, but legal assistance can be very helpful, especially in complex or disputed cases. Many people choose to consult a lawyer to ensure their rights are protected and all legal requirements are met.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking further information or need assistance related to child support in Pori, consider contacting the following:

• Pori Municipal Social Services Office - Child Welfare Department
• Legal Aid Office (Oikeusaputoimisto) in Pori
• Kela (The Social Insurance Institution of Finland) for issues related to maintenance allowance
• National Enforcement Authority for support enforcement matters
• Finnish Ministry of Justice for general legal information
• Local family law lawyers specializing in child support cases

Next Steps

If you are considering taking action regarding child support in Pori, start by gathering all relevant documents, such as income statements, current agreements, and proof of expenses related to your child. Contact the municipal child welfare officer for help in mediating an agreement. If you face disagreement, complex financial issues or cross-border matters, consulting with a family law lawyer is recommended. A legal expert can assess your specific situation, explain your rights, and represent you in negotiations or court proceedings. If necessary, apply for legal aid to help cover your legal costs. Taking these steps will help you navigate the child support process effectively and in accordance with Finnish law.