Child Support Lawyers in Adelaide
We’ve supported South Australian families for more than 47 years. Our team provides compassionate guidance and clear advice to help you resolve child support arrangements in a way that protects your children’s best interests and provides long-term stability.
In Australia, parenting arrangements are based on the best interests of the child, not the rights of either parent. This principle guides everything our team does at Mahony’s. We work with you to create parenting arrangements that are practical, sustainable, and focused on your children’s well-being.
Where possible, parenting arrangements are resolved through negotiation or mediation, helping parents avoid the stress and cost of court proceedings. Parenting arrangements can be documented through informal parenting plans or formalised by consent orders. If agreement cannot be reached, our lawyers are prepared to represent you in court to ensure your children’s needs remain the top priority.
Whether your situation involves shared parenting, relocation issues, or urgent applications where safety is a concern, our team is here to provide the legal advice and support you need to move forward with confidence.
Child Support Matters
Managing child support can be complex, especially when parents have different financial circumstances or when agreements need to be enforced. Our child support lawyers provide clear advice to help you understand your rights and obligations, while ensuring your children’s needs are always prioritised.
We assist with:
- Explaining how child support assessments are calculated and what they mean for your circumstances.
- Preparing binding private agreements that provide certainty and flexibility for both parents.
- Helping you apply for variations to arrangements when circumstances change, such as income, employment, or care responsibilities.
- Advising on your options to ensure enforcement if the other parent does not meet their child support obligations.
Our goal is to establish child support arrangements that are as fair and workable as possible, providing you with peace of mind that your children will be properly supported.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the court decide parenting arrangements?
The Court’s main consideration is the best interests of the child. Factors include the child’s relationship with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child, and the need to protect the child from harm. An experienced parenting lawyer in Adelaide can guide you through what the Court will consider in your situation.
Do we need to go to court if we agree on parenting arrangements?
No, if both parents can reach an agreement, it can be documented through a parenting plan or formalised by consent orders, without the need to go to court.
Can parenting arrangements be changed later?
Yes. If circumstances change, such as a parent relocating, changes in the child’s needs, or safety concerns, parenting arrangements can be varied. Our lawyers can help you apply for changes when necessary.
How is child support calculated?
Child support is generally assessed by Services Australia using a formula that considers both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and the care arrangements in place. Our child support lawyers in Adelaide can explain your assessment and advise if a private agreement might suit your situation better.
What happens if my former partner doesn’t pay child support?
If payments aren’t made, there are enforcement options available through Services Australia or the courts. We can advise you on the best approach to ensure your children receive the support they’re entitled to.
