Child Support Lawyer

We are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of child support

Welcome to The Norton Law Group

Fade

Child support is a crucial aspect of family law designed to ensure that children receive adequate financial support from both parents following a separation or divorce. 


At Norton Law Group, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of child support, whether you need to secure payments or manage your obligations. 


Speak to us today to begin your journey

We Are the Leading Family Lawyers in Sydney.

Speak with one of our family lawyers today.

Learn More

Understanding Child Support

Child support refers to the financial contributions made by one parent to the other for the costs associated with raising their children. This support is essential in ensuring that children's needs are met, regardless of the parents' living arrangements or relationship status

  • Legal Responsibility

    Both parents have a legal obligation to contribute to the financial support of their children. This duty persists irrespective of whether the parents were married, in a de facto relationship, or never cohabitated. 

  • Types of Child Support Arrangements

    Informal Agreements: 

    • Private Arrangements: Parents can agree on child support payments without formal intervention. However, these agreements are not legally enforceable. 

    Child Support Assessment: 

    • Services Australia: Either parent can apply for a child support assessment, where Services Australia calculates the amount payable based on a statutory formula. 

    Child Support Agreements: 

    • Binding Agreements: Legally binding agreements that require legal advice before signing. 
    • Limited Agreements: Formal agreem

Application Process

Icon
Icon

  • Parents: Either parent can apply, regardless of whether they will be paying or receiving support. 
  • Non-Parent Carers: Legal guardians, grandparents, or other family members with primary care of the child can also apply. 

Documentation:

  • Proof of Parentage: Provide evidence such as birth certificates, statutory declarations, or court orders. 
  • Financial Information: Submit details of both parents' incomes and care arrangements. 

Submission:

  • Online or Phone: Applications can be submitted online via myGov or by calling the Child Support Enquiry Line. 

Services Australia uses a specific formula to calculate child support, considering: 

Parents' Incomes: Combined income of both parents.

  • Child’s Age: The age of the child.
  • Care Arrangements: The amount of time each parent cares for the child. 
  • Other Dependents: Any other children the parents are financially responsible for. 

Contact Us

Objecting to a Child Support Decision

Grounds for Objection

Assessment Accuracy: If you believe the assessment does not accurately reflect incomes or care arrangements. 

Special Circumstances: Situations warranting a reassessment due to significant changes in circumstances. 

Process

Timeframe: Objections must be filed within 28 days of receiving the decision. 

Submission: Written objections with supporting documentation must be submitted to Services Australia. 

Changes in Circumstances

Notifying Changes

Timely Notification: Changes in income, care arrangements, or living circumstances must be reported to Services Australia within 28 days. 

Impact: Failing to notify can result in overpayments, underpayments, or debts to be repaid. 

Contact Us

Enforcement of Child Support Payments

Collection Methods

Services Australia: Can collect payments directly, ensuring timely and full payment.

Private Collection: Parents may choose to manage payments privately, but this can complicate enforcement if payments are missed.

Legal Actions

Non-Payment: If a parent fails to pay, enforcement actions such as wage garnishments, bank account seizures, and legal proceedings can be initiated.

Legal Advice and Support

Why Seek Legal Advice?

Expert Guidance: Understanding your rights and obligations ensures compliance and fairness. 

Dispute Resolution: Legal advice helps in resolving disputes and negotiating fair agreements. 

Our Services

Comprehensive Support: From application to enforcement, our lawyers provide thorough guidance and representation. 

Personalised Advice: Tailored legal advice to suit your unique circumstances

Navigating Child Support with Confidence

At Norton Law Group, we are committed to providing expert legal support in all aspects of child support. Whether you need to secure payments or manage your obligations, our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the complexities of child support law with confidence.  Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards ensuring the financial stability and well-being of your children. 

Learn More
Share by: