A limited child support agreement is an agreement between parents that sets out the amount of child support to be paid and how often it will be paid. This kind of agreement differs from a binding child support agreement, which is a legal agreement that cannot be changed unless both parties agree.
The main advantage of a limited child support agreement is that it can be changed without having to go through the courts. In other words, if both parents agree to change the amount of child support or the frequency of payments, they can do so without legal intervention.
However, there are some limitations to a limited child support agreement. For example, it can only be in effect for up to three years, after which either parent can apply to the courts to have it changed. Additionally, the agreement cannot be used if one of the parents is receiving a government payment, such as Centrelink benefits.
Another important consideration when entering into a limited child support agreement is ensuring that the amount of child support is adequate. Parents should consider the child`s needs, including expenses such as education and healthcare. If the amount of child support is too low, it may not be in the child`s best interests.
It is also important to note that a limited child support agreement does not override a court order. If a court order is already in place, the agreement will not be valid unless the court approves it.
If you are considering a limited child support agreement, it is important to get legal advice to ensure that the agreement is fair and reasonable. An experienced family lawyer can help you understand your rights and obligations, and can help you negotiate a fair agreement with your child`s other parent.
In summary, a limited child support agreement can be a flexible and convenient way for parents to agree on child support payments. However, it is important to carefully consider the amount of support and to seek legal advice before signing any agreement.