Assumption: "I can ask the family court to help me with my child maintenance claim."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
Court Reality
The family court generally does not deal with child maintenance. Child maintenance is handled by the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) under the Child Support Act 1991. The court only has jurisdiction in limited circumstances, such as top-up maintenance for high earners, school fees, or where the CMS has no jurisdiction (e.g. cases involving children abroad). (Child Support Act 1991)
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The Gap?
"I can ask the family court to help me with my child maintenance claim."
Court Reality
The family court generally does not deal with child maintenance. Child maintenance is handled by the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) under the Child Support Act 1991. The court only has jurisdiction in limited circumstances, such as top-up maintenance for high earners, school fees, or where the CMS has no jurisdiction (e.g. cases involving children abroad). (Child Support Act 1991)
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