Auckland Child Custody Lawyer – Know Your Rights
We’ve all seen it. The parents are fighting over custody or visitation, and they’re not getting along. They don’t want to go through a court battle, but neither do they want to give up their kids. Often, the best option is to visit an Auckland child Custody lawyer to get sound advice on the way forward for you and your family.
The courts have tried mediation, arbitration, and collaborative law. But what about when you can’t even get your own family together for a meeting? What happens then? Meeting an Auckland child custody lawyer is a good next step.
Why Visit An Auckland Child Custody Lawyer?
A lawyer that works in child custody will be able to advise you of your rights and your obligations. People often forget that they have obligations as well as expecting to have their rights fulfilled.
When parents can’t come to an agreement on child custody or visitation, there’s no guarantee that the judge will make a decision that is in the best interest of the children. And if the parents can’t agree, the judge may decide who gets custody based on factors such as:
- How long each parent has been married to the other
- Whether one parent has more money than the other
- If one parent has had a previous relationship with another person
- If one parent was abusive towards the other parent during marriage
- If one parent wants to move away from the other parent
- If one parent is willing to relocate closer to the other parent
If you and your ex-spouse cannot work out a settlement, you’ll need to hire an Auckland child custody lawyer to help you fight for your rights.
What Is Child Custody?
Child custody is a legal obligation that comes into play when a couple divorces. It’s designed to ensure that both parents provide financial assistance for their children after the divorce.
In New Zealand, this includes providing food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and any special needs that the child might require.
If you were ordered by the court to pay child custody, you’d be required to pay this amount every month until the child reaches 18 years old. You could also be required to pay retroactive child custody. This means that you would owe back payments for any time your child spent living with you before you filed for divorce.
How Much Does Child Custody Cost?
It depends on how much income your ex-spouse makes, whether he or she works full-time or part-time, and the number of children involved.
You can find out how much child custody you’ll be expected to pay by filling out our online calculator.
If you think you should pay less than the amount calculated by the calculator, contact us right away so we can discuss your options. We can negotiate a lower payment plan, which will save you money in the long run.
Summing Up Child Custody
Divorce or separation are emotionally difficult times. If children are involved, it can be even more distressing. In order to make sure your rights are met, and that you fulfil your obligations to the ex-spouse and to any children from the relationship, seeking advice from an Auckland child custody lawyer will keep you abreast of those rights and obligations. However, it will also mean that the other party does not take advantage of you.
If you are facing challenges like this, then meeting a good lawyer, like McVeagh Fleming will undoubtedly help.