Best Child Support Lawyers in Schongau

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer

Anwaltskanzlei Bernhard Mehr
Schongau, Germany

English
Anwaltskanzlei Bernhard Mehr, located in the historic center of Schongau, offers comprehensive legal services across multiple disciplines, including family law, criminal law, divorce proceedings, employment law, and mediation. Established in 1977 by Paul Lehner, the firm has over four decades of...
AS SEEN ON

About Child Support Law in Schongau, Germany

Child support, known as "Kindesunterhalt" in Germany, is a legal obligation requiring parents to provide financial maintenance for their children, regardless of marital status. In Schongau - as elsewhere in Germany - the law ensures that children receive adequate support for their living costs, education, and basic needs after parental separation or divorce. The responsibility often lies with the non-custodial parent, but both parents are expected to contribute proportionately based on their income and circumstances.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many situations can arise where legal assistance becomes essential in child support matters. If you are facing a divorce or separation, calculating appropriate payments, or needing to enforce or modify a support agreement, navigating the legal process can become complex. Disagreements about income, payment adjustments, or non-compliance with existing orders are also common reasons to consult a lawyer. Legal advice is especially valuable when cross-border issues, special expenses, or paternity disputes are involved, ensuring that your and your child's rights are protected throughout the process.

Local Laws Overview

German child support regulations are governed by the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), the German Civil Code, with uniform rules applying throughout Bavaria and Schongau. Key points include:

  • The Düsseldorf Table ("Düsseldorfer Tabelle") is widely used for calculating payment amounts based on the non-custodial parent’s income and the child’s age.
  • Both parents are legally obligated to provide for the child, but usually the parent with whom the child does not live pays monthly support.
  • Paternity must be legally established if children are born outside of marriage before support can be claimed.
  • Support obligations typically last until the child completes their first vocational training, usually beyond the age of 18 if the child continues education.
  • Local Youth Welfare Office ("Jugendamt") assists in negotiations, enforcement, and clarifications regarding child support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Düsseldorf Table and how is it used in Schongau?

The Düsseldorf Table is a nationwide guideline for calculating child support in Germany, used by local courts and authorities in Schongau. It determines payment levels based on the paying parent's income and the child's age.

Who has to pay child support in Schongau?

Typically, the parent who does not primarily care for the child is required to pay child support to the custodial parent, regardless of whether the parents were married.

What happens if the non-custodial parent refuses to pay?

If support payments are not made, the Youth Welfare Office can assist in enforcement, which may include garnishing wages or taking legal action to secure the owed payments.

Can support amounts be changed after an agreement has been reached?

Yes, if either parent's income or the child's needs change significantly, support payments can be reviewed and adjusted through the courts or the Youth Welfare Office.

How long does the child support obligation last?

Child support is generally required until the child finishes their vocational education or university studies, which may be well past their 18th birthday. Exact duration depends on the child’s educational path.

Is paternity always established for support claims?

Yes, if parents are unmarried, legal paternity must be established before filing for child support. This can be done voluntarily or through a court order.

Are there exceptions or reductions to child support obligations?

In situations where the paying parent faces financial hardships or extraordinary expenses, a court may grant a reduction or temporary suspension, but this requires formal application and evidence.

What if both parents have roughly equal custody?

If custody and time spent with the child are split equally, both parents' incomes are considered to determine if and how much support one must pay to the other. Legal advice may be essential in such complex cases.

Does child support cover all expenses, such as daycare or school fees?

Standard child support is intended to cover general living expenses. Extra costs like daycare, school fees, or medical expenses might require separate agreements or legal action for additional support.

Can foreign nationals claim or be required to pay child support in Schongau?

Yes, non-German parents living in Schongau are generally subject to the same support laws. International cases can be complex, so legal advice is recommended.

Additional Resources

Several local and national organizations can help those seeking information or support with child support matters:

  • Youth Welfare Office ("Jugendamt") in Schongau provides advice, mediation, and help with enforcement of child support orders.
  • Family Courts ("Familiengericht") handle legal proceedings and disputes regarding child support payments.
  • The German Federal Ministry of Justice offers brochures and practical information on family law and child support.
  • Lawyer referral services or the local Bar Association ("Rechtsanwaltskammer") can help in finding an experienced lawyer for family law in Schongau.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with child support in Schongau, start by gathering all relevant documents, such as income statements and existing agreements. You can contact the local Youth Welfare Office for guidance, or consult a qualified family law attorney to review your situation, explain your rights and obligations, and help you negotiate or enforce support agreements. Early legal advice can prevent misunderstandings and ensure your child’s needs are met. Always act promptly, as delays can affect your rights or those of your child in support matters.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Schongau through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Child Support, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Schongau, Germany - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.