Child maintenance issues
Putting the needs of children first
Drawing on our legal expertise in child maintenance
Every parent has a duty to financially support their child, even if they live separately from them and the other parent. Child maintenance is vital for a child’s well-being. Fostering positive family relationships, it offers consistent financial support to cover everyday living expenses and ensure the child receives the best possible start in life.
In family law, child maintenance will only be included in a financial remedies order if the amount is agreed between the parties. Otherwise this responsibility falls to the Child Maintenance Service (CMS), formerly known as the Child Support Agency (CSA).
Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable family lawyer during divorce or separation will ensure you understand your rights and responsibilities in respect of child maintenance.
How can I arrange to have child maintenance agreed?
The parent who doesn’t live with their child full time and isn’t the primary caregiver is referred to as the non-resident parent. They are obligated to provide child maintenance until the child turns 16, or until the age of 20 if the child is in full-time education (up to A level or its equivalent).
There are various ways of arranging child maintenance whether by an agreement reached directly between the parties or negotiated through solicitors, or by a parent making an application to the Child Maintenance Service.
How Jones Myers can help
If you need help with a child maintenance dispute, our team can provide legal guidance and representation to ensure that the child maintenance arrangements are fair and reasonable.
We understand how important it is for you to know that you have the right arrangement in place which can help to reduce any tension in your relationship as parents, especially when it comes to child maintenance payments. Our approach prioritises resolving disputes in a non-confrontational manner, allowing us to assist couples in reaching voluntary agreements for child maintenance. If that does not prove possible, the Child Maintenance Service can help.
Our family law experts include members of Resolution – a national organisation for family lawyers committed to removing conflict from relationship breakdown.
Whether you are making a Child Maintenance Claim, or already receiving it and want to explore your options, please get in touch with us.