Best Child Support Lawyers in Australia

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Carew Counsel Solicitors
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1983
50 people in their team
English
About usCarew Counsel Solicitors is a highly regarded family law practices in Victoria. We have 4 Accredited Family Law Specialists and have over 35 yearsโ€™ experience in the field. Operating in the Melbourne CBD on La Trobe Street our lawyers are always ready to help you with your matter. We have...
ABMS Lawyers
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2016
25 people in their team
English
Welcome to ABMS, Commercial and Family Lawyers for Perth and Western AustraliaWe provide a high level of legal services throughout South Perth, Perth and Western Australia for businesses and individuals. We advise in Commercial Law, Family Law and Wills & Estates.Effective Legal AdviceOur...
Elamine Lawyers
Preston, Australia

Founded in 2014
10 people in their team
English
About usExceptional track record in dealing with top tier, mid tier and suburban level commercial and boutique firms, we haven't missed a beat. Thankfully we have been able to digest complex and robust legal conundrums in property & trust laws, commercial law and family law. Having worked for...
Family Lawyers Mackay

Family Lawyers Mackay

15 minutes Free Consultation
Mackay, Australia

Founded in 2009
6 people in their team
English
Family Lawyers Mackay is a boutique, locally-run family law firm conveniently located in central Mackay, QLD and proudly servicing the Greater Mackay region. Our clients come from all walks of life and from all parts of the region including Mackay, Proserpine, Andergrove, Beaconsfield, Blacks...
City Lawyers & Consultants
Chatswood, Australia

Founded in 2001
10 people in their team
English
About Us We are a Sydney based law firm providing service to clients across NSW. Our senior lawyers have knowledge and expertise to resolve claims cost effectively so our clients could receive substantial payouts.We achieve bigger compensation amounts for our clients because the claims in our...
Terese Wacyk Legal
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1970
25 people in their team
English
Terese Wacyk Legal is a team of experienced professionals guided by our principal Terese Wacyk with over 50 years combined experience in all aspects of the law including Family Law,  Commercial, Matrimonial, De Facto, Wills and Estates, Property, Personal Injury and Employment Law.We...
Holden Barlow
Perth, Australia

Founded in 1987
4 people in their team
English
Family Lawyers Perth - Holden BarlowHolden Barlow Family Lawyers Perth is a well-respected West Australian family law firm with over 40 years of experience in all aspects of divorce and separation.At Holden Barlow our experienced family lawyers specialise in all areas of family law including...
Smart Legal
Loganholme, Australia

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
English
The Smart Legal StoryWith over 40 yearsโ€™ experience, between our office, Smart Legal is a boutique law firm specialising in a wide range of general practice matters.We service the thriving area of Brisbane, Logan and the Gold Coast in all matters including:โ€ข General Legal Adviceโ€ข Wills and...
AMT Lawyers and Associates
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2010
1,000 people in their team
AMT Lawyers and Associates, based in Melbourne, specializes in Conveyancing Law. We also excel in Criminal, Divorce, and Family Law. Our team of experienced lawyers provides tailored legal services to individuals and corporations alike. With a strong commitment to justice, we offer professional...
Coddington Lamont
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2009
2 people in their team
Choosing the right family law solicitor means: knowing what you're doing;understanding the law and the system;making sensible, informed decisions;avoiding common (and other) mistakes;getting good results:more easily;more quickly;with less cost; andwith less stress.Coddington Lamont is a...
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About Child Support Law in Australia

Child Support in Australia is designed to ensure that both parents contribute financially to the upbringing of their children following separation or divorce. The Australian Government, through Services Australia, administers the Child Support Scheme, which assists in calculating and collecting child support payments. This ensures children receive the necessary financial support for their well-being and development.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating child support arrangements can be complex and emotionally challenging. Common situations where legal help might be required include:

  • Disputes regarding the amount of child support payments.
  • Changes in circumstances, such as changes in income, which may necessitate an adjustment in payments.
  • Concerns about non-compliance or enforcement of child support agreements.
  • Negotiating agreements outside the formula assessments provided by Services Australia.
  • Ensuring agreements are legally binding and protect your and your children's interests.

Local Laws Overview

Child support in Australia is governed by the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989 and the Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988. Key aspects include:

  • Assessment Formula: Child support is generally calculated using an income-shares model. Factors like each parent's income, the number of children, and the time each parent spends with the children are considered.
  • Agreements: Parents can make private arrangements or opt for legally binding agreements such as Limited or Binding Child Support Agreements.
  • Collection Options: Parents can use private collect, where payments are made directly between parents, or opt for services like the Child Support Collect provided by the government.
  • Enforcement: There are mechanisms to enforce child support payments, including wage garnishment and tax refund intercepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is child support?

Child support is a financial contribution from the non-custodial parent to help cover the child's living expenses after separation or divorce.

How is child support calculated?

The assessment includes incomes of both parents, the number of dependent children, and the care percentage each parent provides.

Can child support agreements be altered?

Yes, changes in circumstances may warrant a reassessment. The parties can also agree to amend their private arrangements or apply for a change through Services Australia.

What happens if a parent fails to pay child support?

Services Australia can enforce payments through various methods, such as garnishing wages or withdrawing amounts from tax refunds.

What are the types of child support agreements?

Parents can have Limited Child Support Agreements, Binding Child Support Agreements, or opt for informal arrangements without formal registration.

How long does child support last?

Typically, child support continues until the child turns 18, finishes secondary school, or under specific circumstances if both parties agree.

Can grandparents or other relatives apply for child support?

Yes, non-parent carers like grandparents can apply for child support if they are the primary caregivers of the child.

What is a Binding Child Support Agreement?

This is a legally enforceable document where both parties agree on the amount and terms of child support, requiring formal legal advice for validity.

Do child support payments affect government benefits?

Yes, receiving child support can impact the amount of Family Tax Benefit and other government support payments.

Is legal advice necessary for child support issues?

While not mandatory, legal advice can provide clarity, ensure fair agreements, and help navigate disputes or complex circumstances.

Additional Resources

Here are resources and bodies you can consult for help with child support issues:

  • Services Australia: The government body responsible for administering the Child Support Scheme.
  • Australian Family Courts: For legal disputes related to child support agreements and enforcement.
  • Legal Aid: Provides free legal services and advice for eligible individuals.
  • Community Legal Centres: Offer free or low-cost legal advice and support.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in Child Support, consider the following steps:

  1. Research and Gather Information: Understand your rights and obligations under the current child support system.
  2. Consult a Lawyer: Seek expert legal advice to explore options, ensure fair agreements, and address complex disputes.
  3. Visit Services Australia: For assessments, payments information, or to initiate a child support case.
  4. Use Mediation Services: Consider family mediation services as a first step to resolve disputes amicably.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia 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.

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