Under Canadian law, every biological or adoptive parent has a legal obligation to financially support his or her child. (Sometimes, this obligation can also extend to stepparents.)
While the amount owed will vary according to the circumstances, amounts are largely governed by the Federal Child Support Guidelines. The obligation to provide support usually ends when the child turns 18, but it may be extended if, for example, the child has chosen to pursue higher education and remains dependent on the parents.
Child support is based upon the annual income of the paying parent. In some cases, if both parents have equal time access to their child(ren) support is based off the difference of the parents income.
Child support can be enforced through a court order, separation agreement, or the Family Responsibility Office.
Changes in income of the paying parent happen and the amount of child support being paid may need to be varied. At Rogers Law Firm, we can help bring variation matters before the court.
Please refer to the Federal Child Support Guidelines.
