Best Child Support Lawyers in Ringsted

About Child Support Law in Ringsted, Denmark

Child support in Ringsted is governed by national Danish law and administered primarily by the Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset). The purpose of child support, called børnebidrag, is to make sure a child is financially supported by both parents after separation or when the parents do not live together. The law sets a normal monthly contribution that is adjusted annually, and the actual amount can be increased or decreased based on the paying parent’s income, the number of children, and the child’s specific needs.

Although the rules are national, some practical steps take place locally. If a court case is necessary, it will typically be handled at the district court that covers Ringsted Municipality. Everyday issues such as registering an agreement, changing the amount, or addressing non-payment are usually handled through Familieretshuset and, in certain situations, Udbetaling Danmark. Local services in Ringsted Kommune can also help families navigate related welfare and practical matters.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many parents navigate child support using guidance from public authorities. However, legal help can be valuable when there are disagreements or complex circumstances. You may need a lawyer if there is a dispute about how much should be paid, questions about whether child support is due with shared care, or if one parent’s income is difficult to assess, for example when the parent is self-employed or has fluctuating earnings.

A lawyer can also help with cross-border issues when a parent lives outside Denmark, with enforcement if payments are missed, and with applications to change an existing decision due to a significant change in circumstances. If paternity has not yet been legally established, a lawyer can assist with that process because child support generally depends on legal parentage. Finally, if you plan to appeal a decision, a lawyer can assess your chances, meet deadlines, and represent you before the family court.

Local Laws Overview

Child support entitlement and responsibility are set by national rules. Parents can make their own agreement on child support and register it with Familieretshuset, or ask Familieretshuset to set the amount. The starting point is a normal contribution set by the state, which is updated every year. Depending on the paying parent’s income and the circumstances, the contribution can be set at the normal rate or at multiples of the normal rate. The assessment takes into account the number of children who must be supported and relevant deductions provided by law.

In addition to the monthly contribution, special contributions may be ordered for specific events or needs, for example confirmation, special medical or dental expenses, glasses, or certain childcare costs. Contributions are typically owed until the child turns 18. In some cases, an education contribution can be set after the child turns 18, usually when the young person is in education and needs support.

If parents share care or have near equal time, child support may still be due. The exact outcome depends on factors such as incomes, where the child is registered for residence, and how costs are divided. Parents can ask Familieretshuset to adjust the amount if circumstances change, such as a significant rise or fall in income or a change in the care arrangement.

If the paying parent does not pay, Udbetaling Danmark may advance child support to the receiving parent if certain conditions are met, and then seek reimbursement from the paying parent. Public authorities can assist with collection and enforcement, which may involve wage withholding or other legal measures. There are deadlines for appeals and time limits related to older arrears, so it is important to act promptly.

Ringsted-specific note: court proceedings related to child support disputes are generally heard at the district court that serves Ringsted Municipality. Local municipal services can provide guidance on family support and referrals, while legal decisions on child support are made by Familieretshuset and, if contested, by the family court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has to pay child support?

The parent who does not primarily support the child day-to-day typically pays child support to the other parent. If parents share care, a contribution may still be set based on incomes and practical arrangements. Legal parentage must be established before child support can be ordered.

How is the amount calculated?

The state sets a normal monthly contribution each year. Familieretshuset can set the contribution at the normal rate or at a higher multiple depending on the paying parent’s income, the number of dependent children, and other legal criteria. Special contributions can also be set for defined expenses.

Can we agree on child support ourselves?

Yes. Parents can make their own written agreement and submit it to Familieretshuset for registration. Registration helps with clarity, future adjustments, and enforcement if payment problems arise. If you cannot agree, Familieretshuset can decide the amount.

What happens if the paying parent does not pay?

The receiving parent can contact Udbetaling Danmark to apply for an advance in qualifying cases. Authorities can then collect the amount from the paying parent and use enforcement tools where necessary. It is important to act quickly if payment is missed.

Does child support continue after the child turns 18?

The ordinary monthly child support usually ends at age 18. In some situations, an education contribution can be set for a young person over 18 who is in education and needs support. This requires a separate assessment and application.

What if we have equal care or shared residence?

Child support is still possible even with equal care. The decision depends on each parent’s income and how expenses are shared. In some cases, no contribution will be set, and in other cases, a reduced or normal contribution may apply. Seek a formal assessment if you are unsure.

Can child support be changed later?

Yes. If circumstances change significantly, for example a substantial change in income, a change in the care schedule, or new special needs for the child, you can request an adjustment through Familieretshuset. Be ready to document the change.

Is child support taxable?

As a general rule in Denmark, child support is not taxable income for the receiving parent and is not tax deductible for the paying parent. If you have complex tax questions, speak with a tax adviser or the Danish Tax Agency.

Can child support be set retroactively?

There are rules and limits on how far back support can be set or adjusted. Do not delay in applying, because waiting can limit retroactive possibilities. Ask Familieretshuset or a lawyer about current deadlines and options in your situation.

What if one parent lives abroad?

Denmark cooperates with many countries under EU rules and international conventions to recognize and enforce child support. Familieretshuset acts as the central authority for international recovery and can guide you on cross-border applications and enforcement.

Additional Resources

Familieretshuset (Agency of Family Law) - Handles child support agreements and decisions, paternity, custody and visitation. Contact through national self-service channels or by appointment.

Udbetaling Danmark - Administers child benefit and can advance child support in qualifying cases, then collect from the paying parent. Provides guidance on payment and enforcement processes.

Retten i Næstved (District Court serving Ringsted) - Family court matters and enforcement proceedings related to child support disputes and appeals are generally heard here.

Ringsted Kommune - Can provide general family guidance, referrals, and information about local social and family services that support children and parents.

Advokatvagten and local legal aid services - Free or low-cost initial legal guidance, often available at local libraries or community locations in Region Sjælland.

Ankestyrelsen - National appeals body that provides general guidance on social and family law and publishes practice guidelines that can help you understand how rules are applied.

Next Steps

Clarify your goals and gather documents. Collect your child’s CPR details, any existing agreements or decisions, proof of income for both parents, records of childcare or special expenses, and a summary of the care schedule.

Try to agree and register. If you and the other parent can agree on an amount, submit it to Familieretshuset for registration. This makes future enforcement and changes simpler.

Apply for a decision if needed. If you cannot agree, apply to Familieretshuset to set or adjust child support. Ask about timelines, required documents, and whether special contributions are relevant.

Address non-payment promptly. If payments stop, contact Udbetaling Danmark about advances and collection. Keep a written record of missed payments and communications.

Consider legal advice. A local family lawyer can assess the right level of support, prepare evidence, handle international issues, and represent you in negotiations or in court. Ask about legal aid and legal expense insurance to manage costs.

Monitor changes and review regularly. If income, living arrangements, or the child’s needs change, request a review. Acting early helps protect your rights and reduces the risk of arrears or unfair outcomes.

This guide provides general information. For advice about your specific situation in Ringsted, consult Familieretshuset or a qualified family lawyer.