Child support is the process of calculating each parents’ financial contribution for their children’s wellbeing after a divorce or separation. It is usually in the form of periodic payments, payments of expenses, or other property settlement arrangements.
The amount of child support you need to pay depends on various circumstances. If you are unsure of child support laws in Australia and your rights, you will be in need of child support lawyers. The services experts will work with you to help you understand your position, and represent you in child support matters.
Child support lawyers are family attorneys whose role is to assist you in your child support case in various ways, as noted below:
- Assess your case and offer you appropriate legal advice
- Explain the details of the case and what is expected at each stage
- Calculate any expected child support payment
- Represent you during negotiations
- Appear in court on your behalf
Why Should You Consult Child Support Lawyers?
You may think that hiring a child support lawyer is costly or unnecessary. However, lawyers do many things, which you may not be able to do on your own. Here are some reasons why you need a child support lawyer:
1. If Your Other Party Has a Lawyer
To be on the same level, you should have a lawyer to represent you if the other party has an attorney.
2. Know All the Rules
Lawyers can help you prevent your ex-spouse from using a loophole to avoid paying. You will not lose monthly payments because you missed a filing deadline or an unknown court appointment. Your lawyer is your advocate who can help you understand the child support laws in Australia.
3. When the Case is Complicated
Some child support cases are complicated. For example, you and your former partner may have a dispute regarding issues such as custody or the amount to be paid as child support. In such a case, you need a lawyer to help you argue your case and offer you all the assistance you need.
4. Filing Paperwork Accurately
Child support is a payment required by the courts for the benefit of your child. Like in all government agencies, there are many rules, regulations, and forms to be filled out. A child support attorney will help to speed things along by filing the right piece of paper correctly the first time and avoid delays due to a missing checkmark or misspelled word.
5. Helping You Calculate the Amount of Child Maintenance
Child support lawyers know the information that is taken into consideration when computing the child support amount. Therefore, by working with a lawyer, you will be able to calculate the amount correctly.
6. Modifying the Child Support Amount
A lawyer can guide you through the alteration process in child support amount. They will also make this process easier, quicker and most importantly, carefully.
7. Rapid Response When They Skip Out
Your former partner may use various tactics to skip out on child support by switching jobs and addresses. Your child support lawyer will have the time to respond quickly, protecting your child’s monthly income.
Final Words
A child support lawyer can give you invaluable assistance during your child support case. Although having a lawyer during a child support lawsuit is not a requirement, there are many instances in which you will need a child support lawyer, so make sure to check out our website. Understanding what child support lawyers do, why you need one and the factors to consider before you hire them can go a long way in ensuring that you make a strong case.
