Best Child Support Lawyers in Port Coquitlam

About Child Support Law in Port Coquitlam, Canada:

Child support in Port Coquitlam, Canada, is governed by the federal Divorce Act and the British Columbia Family Law Act. Child support is the legal obligation of parents to provide financial support for their children, even if they are no longer in a relationship. The goal of child support is to ensure that children's needs are met and that they continue to have a stable and secure upbringing.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

There are several common situations where people may require legal help in child support matters, such as determining the appropriate amount of child support, enforcing child support orders, modifying existing child support agreements, or resolving disputes over child support payments.

Local Laws Overview:

Key aspects of local child support laws in Port Coquitlam, Canada, include the calculation of child support based on the income of both parents, the guidelines for determining the amount of child support, and the mechanisms for enforcing child support orders through the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP).

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How is child support calculated in Port Coquitlam, Canada?

Child support is calculated based on the income of both parents using the Child Support Guidelines. The amount will depend on factors such as the number of children and the custody arrangements.

2. What can I do if my ex-partner is not paying child support?

If your ex-partner is not paying child support, you can seek enforcement through the FMEP, which can take various actions to collect the unpaid support.

3. Can child support orders be modified?

Child support orders can be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income or custody arrangements.

4. Can grandparents be required to pay child support?

In some cases, grandparents or other relatives may be required to pay child support if they have acted in loco parentis and have assumed responsibility for the child.

5. Can child support payments be tax-deductible?

Child support payments are not tax-deductible for the paying parent and are not considered taxable income for the receiving parent.

6. Is child support required if parents have joint custody?

Child support may still be required in cases of joint custody, depending on the relative incomes of the parents and the custody arrangement.

7. What happens if a parent refuses to disclose their income for child support calculations?

If a parent refuses to disclose their income, the court may impute income based on available information, which can impact the child support amount.

8. Can child support agreements be reached outside of court?

Child support agreements can be reached outside of court through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law processes, but it is recommended to have a lawyer review the agreement to ensure it is fair and legally valid.

9. How long does child support last?

Child support typically lasts until the child reaches the age of majority, which is usually 19 in British Columbia, but can continue through post-secondary education in some cases.

10. Can child support be waived or reduced by mutual agreement?

Child support can only be waived or reduced by mutual agreement if both parents agree and the court determines that the agreement is in the best interests of the child.

Additional Resources:

For more information on child support in Port Coquitlam, Canada, you can visit the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP) website or consult a family law lawyer for legal advice and assistance.

Next Steps:

If you require legal assistance with child support matters in Port Coquitlam, Canada, it is recommended to seek the advice of a qualified family law lawyer who specializes in child support issues. They can provide you with guidance, representation, and support throughout the legal process.