Child Support Defined

Understand precisely what child support is, who it applies to and how it differs from custody or alimony. Clear definitions help you grasp your rights and responsibilities.

Court Procedures for Obtaining Child Support

If your child's other parent won't pay support, you can apply to the Child Maintenance Service, but the process takes weeks and court may be your only option.

Disputes over Paternity

When someone disputes paternity, the CSA/CMS must investigate and establish who the legal parent is before calculating child maintenance.

Distribution and Payment: What is Involved?

Find out how child support payments are calculated, collected and distributed between parents through the Child Maintenance Service.

Duration of Child Support Orders

Child support orders typically last until your child turns 19, covering living expenses and education costs during that time.

Income: Protected, Assessable and Exempt

Child support payments calculated before 2003 fall under old rules that classify income as protected, assessable or exempt.

Non-Payment and Visitation / Penalties

You can't legally withhold contact with your child because a non-resident parent isn't paying maintenance.

The Use of Child Support Payments

Child support payments help cover the costs of raising children, whether arranged privately or through the Child Maintenance Service.

Who Can Apply for Child Support?

You can apply for child support if you have care of a child or parental responsibility, whether or not you're a biological parent.