Repeat after Us: Child Contact and Support are Two Separate Things

Children are usually the first priority in cases of divorcing parents. Generally, each wants to have some form of contact with the child, although some are required to pay as well. However, in some cases, the parent might be barred from seeking contact with their child, even if they are paying child support. Now while this might seem highly unethical and illegal, it is actually the law.

For most people who don’t understand the difference, here are the basics of it:

Paying child support does not automatically open the door for the parent to have equal contact with the child in question. Or any contact at all. However, not paying child support does not dis-entitle the parent from having any contact with the child as well.

This ruling isn’t to antagonize the other parent, even though some people may consider it as just that. In truth, this rule is enforced to protect the welfare of the child.

The Basic Principles – Child Support vs. Contact

This principle for child support states that each parent is responsible for the welfare of the child. Ergo, each has the responsibility to finance the wellbeing of the child.

However, the basic principle for contact is that, if there is contact between the child and the parent, it will need to be dictated completely by what’s best for the child.

Now, there has been some debate that the parent paying for child support should have equal contact with the child. However, this arrangement does not take into account whether the parent even qualifies as a good parent to begin with. In many cases, children often end up bearing the brunt of it in child custody battles. And though that is not the truth for all cases, it is the truth for many.

Now though the government has decided that it is a good idea to link contact with that of child support, this has led to many cases where parents battled it out – not for the child’s time that will be spent with either of them – but with the money they’ll get in child support if the hours are more.

Logically Speaking…

This is not the right ruling. The amount of child support should not depend on the number of hours spent with each parent.

However, if you’re stuck in a situation where you fear for your child’s welfare during the court proceedings, contact a professional in family law so you can be guided the right way.

We at Wembley Solicitors have the expertise you need so your case goes as you desire. Contact us today by calling 020 3417 3700 and tell us all the details of your case.