Understanding Family Law: Child Support in New Zealand

Family law is a special area of law that deals with issues related to family relationships. One important part of family law is child support. This is about making sure that children receive the financial support they need from their parents, especially when the parents are separated or divorced.

What is Child Support?

Child support is money that one parent pays to the other to help cover the costs of raising their child. This can include expenses like food, clothing, school fees, and medical care. In New Zealand, both parents are responsible for supporting their children, even if they do not live together.

How Does Child Support Work in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, the Child Support Act 1991 sets out the rules for child support. The amount of money a parent has to pay is based on their income and how much time they spend with the child. For example:

• If a parent earns a good income but sees their child only a few times a year, they may have to pay more in child support.
• If a parent earns less but spends a lot of time with the child, they may pay less.

How is Child Support Calculated?

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) is responsible for calculating and collecting child support payments. They use a formula that considers:

• The income of the parent who pays child support.
• The number of children that need support.
• The amount of time each parent spends with the child.

For example, if a parent earns $60,000 a year and has one child, the IRD will calculate how much they should pay based on this information.

What Happens if Payments are Not Made?

If a parent does not pay the required child support, the other parent can ask the IRD for help. The IRD can take steps to collect the money, which may include taking money directly from the paying parent’s wages or bank account.

Why is Child Support Important?

Child support is crucial because it helps ensure that children have what they need to grow up healthy and happy. It allows both parents to contribute to their child's upbringing, even if they are no longer together.

Getting Help with Child Support

If you have questions about child support or need help with your situation, it is a good idea to speak to a lawyer who specialises in family law. They can provide advice and support to help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

In summary, child support is an essential part of family law in New Zealand, ensuring that children receive the financial support they need from both parents, regardless of their living arrangements.