What we offer
Child Support
Child support is calculated by a formula that takes into account the age of the child, the taxable income of both parents, and how many nights each parent spends with a child. Child support is payable until the child is 18 years old. A parent can also apply for it to be extended until the child finishes secondary school if they turn 18 before finishing school.
If the calculation of child support is not a true reflection of the parents circumstances then a parent can apply for a change of assessment. For example, this may happen when a parent is self-employed and their taxable income is not a true reflection of their income, or the child has special needs and the assessed amount is insufficient to cover that child’s needs. The change in assessment application will then be reviewed by a “human” and a decision will be made if the assessment should be changed.
Parents can reach a private agreement about child support. Many parents prefer to do this, they might agree rather than paying child support they will instead pay all of the child’s school fees, health insurance and extra circular activities or they might agree on a fixed amount regardless if their circumstances change. Some parents want to lock in that neither one will make a claim for child support from the other. If the parties reach a private agreement it is recommended that it is legally formalised by way of a Binding Child Support Agreement. Both parents must have independent legal advice before signing the agreement.
Cairns Family Law Group with can assist you with providing advice about child support, drafting Binding Child Support Agreements and providing the required legal advice. We have offices in Cairns and Innisfail and assist clients throughout Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
We address the common concerns you might have as you navigate the realms of family law. Our aim is to provide clear, straightforward answers to help demystify the legal processes involved. Here are some of the most asked questions in family law in QLD, Australia.
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How is child support generally calculated?
Child support calculations consider various factors, including each parent’s income and the child’s living arrangements. Our focus is on securing a fair contribution that ensures your child’s well-being.
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Can child support arrangements be modified over time?
Absolutely. Life changes, and child support arrangements can be reviewed and adjusted to reflect new circumstances. We guide you through this process, ensuring a fair and updated outcome.
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What are my options if the other parent is not making required payments?
Non-payment is a serious issue. We can assist you in pursuing various legal avenues to enforce child support payments, always keeping your child’s best interests in focus.
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What does adult child maintenance cover?
Adult child maintenance can cover educational expenses, medical needs, and other special circumstances that extend beyond the age of 18. We help you navigate this less-common but important area.
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How does shared custody impact child support payments?
Shared custody can alter child support obligations. Our expertise ensures that shared arrangements are accurately reflected in financial contributions, balancing responsibilities equitably.
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Are step-parents or guardians obligated to provide child support?
In some cases, step-parents and guardians may have financial responsibilities. We clarify these obligations and help you understand your role in your child’s financial well-being.
Getting started
A step-by-step guide to resolving your family law problem
Getting started on resolving your family law problem can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process can ease the way. Here’s a straightforward guide to what you can expect from your first appointment with us, designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to take the next steps.
1. Making first contact
Reaching out is the first step towards resolving your family law matter.
You can book an initial appointment with us on our online booking calendar on our website or over the phone. We offer two initial options to get the conversation started: a complimentary 15-minute chat or a comprehensive one-hour consultation for $450, including GST.
Both provide a safe space for us to understand your unique situation.
2. Preparing for your consultation
While it’s natural to feel anxious about your first meeting with a family lawyer, we aim to make the process as smooth as possible. We offer appointments in person either at our Cairns or Innisfail office, or by Telephone or Microsoft Teams appointments.
If your matter is about a property settlement, be prepared to answer questions about what property you currently own and its estimated value and the property that you and your former partner owned at the start of the relationship.
Please ensure you have childcare in place for your children, as we do not allow children to attend appointments.
3. During the initial consultation
The initial consultation is a one-hour session with a family lawyer on our team. We will listen to your story, ask you relevant questions, provide you with preliminary advice about your separation, divorce, parenting and/or property matter and make a plan forward to assist you to resolve your matter.
4. The next step
Following your first consultation, should you choose to engage our services, we’ll provide you with a cost agreement and disclosure notice detailing our legal fees and terms of engagement.
With our expertise by your side, you’ll have the resources and strategies to make confident decisions and progress towards a resolution.
Want to meet the team? Book a consult and let's chat
Our team
Meet the dedicated professionals who make Cairns Family Law Group your trusted ally in navigating family law. Each member of our team not only brings legal expertise but also a genuine commitment to understanding your unique situation.
Together, we focus on equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that positively shape your future.
For a deeper dive into the expertise and ethos that each team member brings to your case, click below.
