Best Child Support Lawyers in New Zealand

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

Free. Takes 2 min.

Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Gawith Burridge
Masterton, New Zealand

Founded in 1875
36 people in their team
English
Gawith Burridge traces its history back to 1875 when Charles Gawith first set up his practice. Since then the firm has undergone many changes, including a merger between Gawith & Co and Burridge & Co in 1998 to form the current practice. Today the firm comprises 36 staff, with 6 partners, who come...
Foley Douglas
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Māori
English
From commercial contracts to purchasing property, asset protection to monetising your intellectual property, our team can provide you with the legal advice you need for life.Collaborative in nature and thoughtful in approach, at Foley Douglas, we think critically, work collaboratively, and deliver...
Mee & Henry Law Limited
Invercargill, New Zealand

Founded in 2014
10 people in their team
English
Mee & Henry Law Limited is a small general practice law firm based in Invercargill, New Zealand, with clients across the country. For over twenty years the firm has delivered quality legal services in a practical and cost-effective manner, building a reputation for accessibility and client focused...
Community Law Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand

English
Community Law Canterbury, also known as Te Ture Whānui o Waitaha, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality legal assistance to individuals in Canterbury and the West Coast who encounter barriers to justice. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services,...
McLean Law Limited
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
English
McLean Law Limited is a New Zealand litigation firm based in New Lynn, Auckland. It markets itself as Litigation Specialists and focuses on practical dispute resolution across a wide range of civil and commercial matters, supported by hands on service and a direct approach to client needs.Its...
Jeremy Sutton
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Māori
English
With over 30 combined years of experience, Jeremy Sutton and his team assists with high net worth, financially complex divorce cases. He has a particular expertise in cases that involve trusts, businesses, disputed estates and significant investment portfolios.Jeremy finds fulfilment in advocating...
Pitt & Moore Lawyers | Nelson
Nelson, New Zealand

Founded in 1864
30 people in their team
English
Pitt & Moore Lawyers in Nelson is one of the region's oldest and most respected law firms, established in 1864 with a long history of delivering practical legal advice across the full range of services from business contracts to personal legal matters. The firm serves a diverse local, national and...

English
Bullock & Associates is a Whanganui, New Zealand-based boutique law firm specialising in property and family law, with additional capabilities in trusts, estate planning and disputes resolution. The firm serves individuals and businesses across a wide range of matters and emphasises practical,...
Mooney & Webb
New Plymouth, New Zealand

6 people in their team
English
Mooney & Webb is a New Plymouth-based law firm offering criminal, family and property law services to private and legally aided clients. The firm is known for approachable legal representation and practical, clear guidance in court matters and general legal issues, with transparent fixed-fee...
Jeremy McGuire - Lawyer
Palmerston North, New Zealand

2 people in their team
English
Jeremy McGuire brings substantial commercial and property law experience from practice in Auckland and Wellington to clients in Palmerston North and Feilding. He concentrates on property, family, employment, business and intellectual property matters and combines technical legal knowledge with...
AS SEEN ON

About Child Support Law in New Zealand

Child support in New Zealand is a system that ensures financial support is provided to children whose parents are not living together. Administered by Inland Revenue, the child support scheme calculates the payment obligations from the liable parent to support their children. The primary objective is to ensure that children receive the financial contributions they are entitled to, acting in their best interests and securing their well-being.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in which seeking legal advice regarding child support can be crucial:

  • Disputing Child Support Assessments: If you disagree with an assessment made by Inland Revenue, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and assist in filing a challenge.
  • Enforcement of Payments: If the other parent fails to make the required payments, legal advice may be necessary to enforce the child support obligations.
  • Intercountry Issues: For issues involving parents residing in different countries, legal complexities might arise, requiring specialized legal assistance.
  • Modifications due to Changing Circumstances: Changes in income, employment status, or family composition might necessitate a change in the child support agreement, where legal advice can be beneficial.
  • Complex Family Arrangements: Legal input can also assist in establishing fair arrangements in cases involving multiple children or complex custody arrangements.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of local laws relevant to child support in New Zealand include:

  • Child Support Act 1991: This is the primary legislation that governs child support calculations, collection, and enforcement in New Zealand.
  • Income Assessment: The child support calculation is based on the income of both parents and the costs related to raising a child within New Zealand.
  • Shared Care Arrangements: When parents share care of a child significantly, this can impact the calculation of child support payments.
  • Voluntary Agreements: Parents can enter into private child support agreements, provided both parties consent and the agreement serves the child's best interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated in New Zealand?

Child support is calculated based on a formula that considers the income of both parents, the amount of care each parent provides, and the estimated costs of raising children in New Zealand.

What if I disagree with the child support assessment?

If you disagree with an assessment, you can lodge an objection with Inland Revenue within a specific timeframe. It may be beneficial to consult with a lawyer to navigate this process effectively.

Can I make a private child support agreement?

Yes, parents can make private child support arrangements without involving Inland Revenue. However, both parties must agree, and it must meet the child's needs.

What happens if child support payments are not made?

Inland Revenue has mechanisms to enforce child support payments, including wage deductions, tax refund interceptions, or legal action if necessary.

Can I change the child support arrangement if my circumstances change?

Yes, adjustments can be made if there are significant changes in circumstances, such as changes in income, care arrangements, or family dynamics.

Do I have to inform Inland Revenue if my income changes?

Yes, it is essential to inform Inland Revenue of any significant changes in your income to ensure that the child support assessment reflects your current financial situation.

Is child support considered as income for tax purposes?

No, child support payments are not considered taxable income for the receiving parent.

Who is eligible for child support in New Zealand?

Parents who are separated and have children under the age of 18, or 19 if still in school, are generally eligible for child support assessment through Inland Revenue.

What are the options if the other parent is overseas?

New Zealand has reciprocal agreements with several countries that facilitate the enforcement and collection of child support across borders.

Can child support be waived?

Child support obligations are legally binding. However, under specific circumstances, alterations can be made if both parties agree and it aligns with legal guidelines and the child's best interests.

Additional Resources

For additional information and support regarding child support in New Zealand, consider exploring the following resources:

  • Inland Revenue: The government agency responsible for calculating, collecting, and enforcing child support in New Zealand.
  • Community Law Centres: Local centers offering free legal advice and assistance on various issues, including family and child support law.
  • Family Court: For matters that require court intervention, involving legal experts for guidance.
  • Ministry of Social Development: Provides support services related to family and children’s welfare.

Next Steps

If you find yourself needing legal assistance regarding child support, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with a specialized family law lawyer to understand your rights and obligations.
  • Contact your local Community Law Centre for free preliminary advice and find out if you qualify for legal aid.
  • Gather any relevant documentation related to income, care arrangements, and existing agreements.
  • Contact Inland Revenue for specific queries or to discuss challenges and adjustments to your child support situation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in New Zealand 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 New Zealand — 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.