Child Support
Aitken Partners has helped clients across Melbourne and Victoria find an agreeable and efficient resolution to their child support and custody disputes, ensuring all proceedings and mediations are handled productively and respectfully. We understand that child support and custody matters can be a complex, lengthy and stressful for all parties concerned. We are here to ensure our clients receive professional legal assistance and representation and a consistent and compassionate base of support to help them through every step of the process.
Child support is a payment from one parent to the other to assist in the day-to-day care of the children.
Parties can either seek payment of child support through the Child Support Assessment Scheme or attempt to reach an agreement through private negotiations.
The Child Support Assessment Scheme applies to children whose parents separated on or after 1 October 1989 or where a child is born after that date. The Child Support Agency applies an administrative formula in calculating the appropriate level of support payable by one party to the other.
In broad terms, the formula takes into account the number of children and the age of the children in your family, the number of nights the children spend in your respective care, whether there are any other children who require your financial assistance, and the taxable income of yourself and your partner. The costs are then shared between the parents in proportion to each parent’s contribution to their combined income.
Private Agreements for child support are usually reserved for parties with a significant income. As part of any private agreement, child support can include a periodic sum, paid weekly, fortnightly or monthly; Private School fees and associated expenses; Private health insurance and medical expenses; and extracurricular expenses for children, including their sporting and other activities.
Our specialised child support lawyers can advise you as to your liability to pay, or entitlement to receive child support and can also assist you in reaching an agreement on such issues and draft any associated private agreements on child support matters.
The Aitken Partners staff work closely with you, taking the time to understand each client's personal, professional and emotional circumstances. When they work with our compassionate team of child support lawyers, Melbourne clients can be sure that their case is in good hands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Family lawyers provide a wide range of legal services. They cover areas like divorce, property settlements, child custody, and spousal maintenance. Family law lawyers can help guide you through the complexities of separation and ensure your rights are protected. They are experts in negotiating and mediating settlements that suit all parties involved.
The cost of hiring a family lawyer can vary. It depends on the complexity of your case and the lawyer's experience. Some family law lawyers charge hourly rates, while others offer fixed fees for certain services. It’s essential to discuss fees upfront to avoid unexpected costs during the process.
You should contact a family law expert as soon as you face any family-related legal issues. Whether it's for separation, divorce, or child support, family law lawyers in Melbourne can provide immediate legal advice. Early consultation ensures you are informed about your rights and options from the outset.
A family lawyer can assist you in navigating child custody arrangements. They provide legal advice and work to achieve the best outcomes for you and your children. Whether you are seeking sole custody or shared custody, family law lawyers will help outline a parenting plan. They can also represent you in court if needed.