Child support Germany: Is it worth hiring a lawyer and going to court in Germany for a reduction?

Questioner

A new calculation has been made after 10 years about the amount that my partner has to pay to his ex-girlfriend in Germany. We now have to pay double even though the oldest son works full time and they also receive child benefit from the Netherlands. The child benefit has never been settled with what my boyfriend has to pay so we wonder if this is all correct. Germany didn't even know that they were receiving child benefits from the Netherlands, and we also have no insight into children's schooling, etc. Is it useful to hire a lawyer and go to court in Germany for a reduction? His ex and children now have more income than we have left.

Lawyer

It may be useful to at least contact a lawyer who specializes in international family law, as this is a complex situation involving laws in both the Netherlands and Germany. A lawyer can advise on your options and possible next steps. The law regarding child support can vary considerably between countries. In some legal systems, such as the Dutch one, the income of the recipient of the support (in this case the ex-girlfriend and children) may be taken into account when determining the maintenance obligation. The age and independence of the children (for example if they work full-time) may also play a role. The fact that you have no insight into the children's situation (such as their school results) and that the child benefit received from the Netherlands has not been included in the calculation of maintenance may also be important. The complexity of this situation is that multiple legal systems are involved, which makes it advisable to seek legal assistance. Please note that this is only exploratory advice and that it is advisable to contact a legal specialist for detailed advice tailored to your specific situation.--------------- Stichting Rechtswinkel.nl is a national organization with students and volunteers. The above advice is based on limited information and may be incomplete or even incorrect for your situation. Always consult a lawyer or attorney for your further steps. Read disclaimer: https://rechtswinkel.nl/disclaimer I would like to invite you to rate the above answer so that we can learn from your response.