Maintenance

Maintenance costs are often worked out through negotiation and many clients approach us to ensure that they have the right information to make sure that any agreement they make is the right one.  

The family law team at Judge & Priestley understand that maintenance negotiations can be much more complicated than meets the eye. Our team is equipped to provide you with advice that takes into account both the complications of tracing earnings and the need to provide stability for both you and your children.

What is Maintenance?

Maintenance can come in two main forms: child maintenance or spousal maintenance. 

Child maintenance serves the purpose of providing sufficient financial costs for the bringing up of your children. It normally involves a regular financial payment to contribute to the child’s general living costs. It is encouraged that families try to make arrangements between themselves before a government scheme, or in some cases, a court order is utilised. Because deciding on an arrangement depends on many variables, we can provide you with advice specific to your circumstance.

Spousal maintenance may need to be considered, where one partner cannot financially support themselves following the divorce. It is very circumstance-dependent and because we understand the desire for a ‘clean break’ we will provide you with advice that is tailored to your needs. 

Do I have to pay maintenance?

As a starting point, child maintenance is paid to the parent with the day-to-day care of the children. How much you will have to pay will depend on your earnings. 

Other factors to take into account include:

• Sharing of childcare
• The age of your children and their education circumstances
• Other children
• Other factors affecting your gross income

Spousal maintenance only needs to be paid in circumstances where post-separation one partner cannot financially support themselves. The payment period is normally short but will depend on the circumstances. 

At Judge & Priestley, we understand that most people want to get on with their lives as soon as possible. With our years of experience, we can assure that you will receive professional advice that balances both you and your children's interests.

If you would like to discuss this matter with one of our specialist solicitors, please contact us on 020 8290 7341 or 020 8290 0333 to make an appointment.