Child Maintenance
Child Maintenance – protecting your child’s future
As a parent you are responsible for supporting your children financially, even if you do not live together as a family. The parent who has custody (now called residence) is known as the ‘parent with care’, and is entitled to receive financial support from the other parent, known as the ‘non resident parent’. This is called child maintenance, and can be arranged by private agreement or through the Child Support Agency (CSA).
Residence can be obtained by either parent, and father’s rights to apply for custody of children or joint custody are increasingly recognised by the courts. Additionally, those who hold a special guardianship order can also seek financial assistance.
The Role of the CSA
The CSA is part of the government’s Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission (CMEC). If an agreement between parents cannot be reached, the CSA can be asked to calculate how much maintenance is due. If necessary, the CSA has the power to collect money and enforce payments from you. This may be achieved through deducting earnings, confiscating your driving licence, seizing your property or asking the courts to imprison you.
Child Maintenance – How Much Should You Pay?
Child maintenance payments differ from case to case, but mainly depend upon the income of the non resident parent.. Payments can be made on a weekly or monthly basis, and usually last until the child is 17 years of age or ceases full time secondary education.
Ask A Solicitor For Advice
If you are seeking financial support for your children, or the CSA is enforcing maintenance, then you need expert help and advice. The family law team at Pannone Solicitors have extensive experience of these matters, and we promise to fight hard on your behalf.
Child maintenance legal advice
For further assistance, click here or contact us direct on 0800 840 4929 and speak to one of our trusted and experienced family law solicitors.
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