Best Child Support Lawyers in Suan Luang
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List of the best lawyers in Suan Luang, Thailand
Thailand Child Support Legal Questions answered by Lawyers
Browse our 2 legal questions about Child Support in Thailand and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
- If I live abroad and a Thai court has ruled that I should pay for child support, will this be enforced?
- Yes, this will be enforced. If you have any property in Thailand, the court will place an order to seize your property to be sold via auction; then, the proceeds from the auction will be used for child support. If you do not have any property in Thailand, the Thai court will work cooperatively with the court where your property is located to seize your property and sell them to pay for child support.
- If I am living abroad and a Thai court has ruled that I should pay for child support, will this be enforced?
- Yes, this will be enforced. If you have any property in Thailand, the court will place an order to seize your property to be sold via auction; then the proceeds from the auction will be used for the child support. If you do not have any property in Thailand, the Thai court will work cooperatively with the court in the country where your property is located to seize your property and sell them in order to pay for child support.
About Child Support Law in Suan Luang, Thailand
Child support law in Suan Luang, which is one of the districts of Bangkok, Thailand, is regulated under national Thai law, specifically the Civil and Commercial Code. The law requires both parents to share the financial responsibility for their child’s upbringing, regardless of the parents’ marital status or whether they live together. Child support ensures the financial security and well-being of children whose parents are separated, divorced, or were never married. The court may order a parent to pay support based on the child's needs and the parent’s financial capacity. Enforcement, modification, and collection of child support are handled through legal channels, which sometimes require court intervention or mediation.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
There are several situations where someone in Suan Luang might need legal guidance regarding child support. Common scenarios include:
- One parent refuses to pay child support as required by law
- Uncertainty about the amount of money that should be paid or received
- Disagreements about child custody or visitation that impact financial obligations
- Applications to modify existing support agreements due to changes in income or circumstances
- Difficulty in enforcing a child support order if the paying parent is uncooperative
- Questions about the legal rights of unmarried parents to support or custody
- Cross-border issues when one parent lives outside Thailand
A qualified lawyer can provide advice, negotiate settlements, represent you in court, and help enforce support orders in complex or contentious cases.
Local Laws Overview
In Suan Luang, the main rules governing child support are established under Sections 1522 and 1563 of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code. Important aspects include:
- Both parents are legally required to contribute to the maintenance and education of their child until the child turns 20 years old, unless the child marries before that age
- Either parent can file a petition with the Family Court to set or enforce child support
- The amount of support is determined by the court, considering the needs of the child and the financial means of both parents
- Even if parents are not married, the father may be required to pay child support, but paternity may need to be established legally if he does not voluntarily acknowledge the child
- Failure to pay court-ordered child support can lead to legal actions, such as sequestration of assets, wage garnishment, or in some cases, criminal penalties for contempt of court
- Support agreements can be revised if circumstances change, such as a change in income or the needs of the child
It is important to follow the formal legal process and, where possible, to obtain a court order to make enforcement easier if any disagreements arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is child support and who has to pay it in Suan Luang?
Child support is a financial obligation paid by one parent to help with the costs of raising a child. In Suan Luang, both parents are responsible for child support, but typically, the non-custodial parent pays support to the custodial parent.
How is the amount of child support determined?
The Family Court considers the child’s needs and the financial circumstances of both parents. There is no fixed formula, so each case is assessed individually.
Can I get child support if I was never married to the other parent?
Yes, you are entitled to seek child support whether or not you were married to the other parent. In some cases, you may first need to establish paternity through the legal process.
What documents are needed to file for child support in Suan Luang?
Required documents often include proof of parentage (such as birth certificates), financial statements, evidence of the child's expenses, and any relevant agreements or court orders.
How do I enforce a child support order if the other parent refuses to pay?
You can return to the Family Court for enforcement. The court has the power to order asset seizure, wage garnishment, or even impose penalties on the non-paying parent.
Can a child support agreement be modified?
Yes, either parent can request a change if there is a significant change in circumstances, like income changes, job loss, or increased needs of the child.
How long does child support last in Thailand?
Child support typically continues until the child turns 20 years old, unless the child marries or becomes self-supporting before that age.
What if the non-custodial parent lives in another country?
Cross-border cases can be complicated. Thai courts may work with foreign jurisdictions, but collecting payment can be challenging. Legal assistance is strongly recommended in international cases.
Is it possible to agree on child support without going to court?
Yes, parents can make informal agreements. However, to ensure enforceability, an agreement should be approved by the court.
Do grandparents or other relatives ever have to pay child support?
As a rule, only legal parents are obligated to pay child support. In rare cases, if both parents are unable or unwilling to support the child, a court might consider other sources, but this is uncommon.
Additional Resources
If you need further assistance or guidance about child support in Suan Luang, these organizations and services may be helpful:
- Central Juvenile and Family Court in Bangkok
- Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), which provides family law resources and child welfare services
- Legal Aid Centers in Bangkok, offering free or low-cost legal advice on family law issues
- Thai Lawyers Council, which can help connect you with qualified family law attorneys
- Local social welfare departments or community legal clinics in Suan Luang District
Next Steps
If you are facing a child support issue in Suan Luang, here are practical steps you should consider:
- Gather all relevant documents regarding your child, finances, and your relationship with the other parent
- Seek initial advice from a qualified lawyer who specializes in family law
- Consider legal aid services if you have limited financial resources
- If possible, attempt to reach an amicable agreement with the other parent, but ensure any agreement is documented and ideally approved by a court
- If an agreement is not possible, initiate court proceedings at the Family Court in Bangkok for an official child support order
- Maintain clear communication and keep records of any payments or correspondence related to child support
Legal processes around child support can be complex, especially if there is conflict or an uncooperative parent. Professional legal guidance is often the best way to protect your rights and the interests of your child.
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.