Best Child Support Lawyers in New Zealand

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Miller Poulgrain
Thames, New Zealand

Founded in 1869
English
Miller Poulgrain is a long standing law firm based in Thames on the Coromandel Peninsula, recognized for practical, client focused legal services across real estate, family and business matters. Since 1869 the firm has served generations of local families and businesses with deep local knowledge...
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2009
13 people in their team
English
Niemand Peebles Hoult is a boutique law firm based in Hamilton, New Zealand, specializing in family law and related matters. Founded on 21 August 2009, the firm has grown to become one of the largest specialist family law firms in the Waikato region, combining targeted expertise with a client...
Prime Legal Ltd
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Prime Legal Ltd is an established family friendly law firm. Our team is made up of 4 lawyers, a senior legal executive - not forgetting the office pooches, Olaf and Josie.Our team has a wide skill base so we can cater for your legal needs from cradle to grave. Our legal team are experienced and...

Founded in 2014
60 people in their team
English
Denham Bramwell Lawyers - Manukau Office was established in June 2014 and operates as part of a multi-office Auckland practice that specialises in property law, family law, estates, wills and trusts, dispute resolution, litigation and commercial and business law. The Manukau office provides local...
Dunedin, New Zealand

English
O'Neill Devereux Barristers & Solicitors is a Dunedin based family firm that specialises in property transactions, wills and estates, family matters and civil litigation. The practice covers residential and commercial conveyancing, refinancing and subdivisions, with tailored advice for trusts and...
Rainey Collins Lawyers
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1919
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Our FirmSee and hear about how we look after our clients and delight them with our service, as we celebrate our 100th anniversary. A captioned video is also available below.Current PositionThis three partner, thirteen lawyer firm is organised into three broad teams supervised by the partners. ...
Advent Ark Lawyers
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2020
9 people in their team
English
Advent Ark Lawyers is a New Zealand law firm based in Auckland that specialises in immigration, property, commercial, family, employment and litigation matters. The firm positions itself as a multi-lingual practice with a focus on serving migrant communities and local clients who require specialist...
Baywide Community Law Service
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1988
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About usBaywide Community Law supports our community by enabling access to free legal services for people living along the Bay of Plenty coast, from Waihi to Te Kaha.We offer free legal information to everyone, and one-on-one legal advice to people on low incomes, with disabilities or other...
Harmans Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1888
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Our HistoryServing Canterbury since 1888Harmans’ long association with Canterbury’s legal community began in 1888, when Thomas DeRenzy Harman, the son of Richard Harman, a passenger on one of the First Four Ships, established his own practice.Over the next 100-odd years the firm was known by a...
Checketts Mckay Law - Alexandra
Alexandra, New Zealand

30 people in their team
English
Checketts McKay Law Limited is a long established regional law firm serving Central Otago and the Southern Lakes from offices in Alexandra, Cromwell, Wanaka and Ranfurly. The firm traces its origins to historic local practices dating back to the 1880s and combines that heritage with modern...
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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.

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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.