The court considers a range of factors in determining the amount of maintenance required to be paid.
Firstly, the court will determine if financial support is necessary. If so, the court will determine the financial contributions or respective contributions which should be made by each party.
Any orders made by the court will need to be made so that the proper needs of the child or children are met by both parents. The court will consider the age, education and special needs of the children.
Furthermore, the court will consider the income, earning capacity, property and financial resources of the child. However, the court must disregard the income and earning capacity of any other person (unless the court deems it appropriate), and any entitlement of the child to a pension, allowance or benefit from the government.
Urgent child maintenance orders can be made if the court considers that the child is in immediate need of financial assistance.
How can Prime Lawyers help you?
The family lawyers at Prime Lawyers are experienced in dealing with maintenance issues and are more than willing to assist you with any queries you may have regarding the process undertaken by the courts in determining maintenance amounts.