Maintenance
In general terms maintenance is the payment by one person to another of money. The amount of maintenance and the way in which it is paid (weekly, monthly etc.) will vary from case to case. In deciding the amount of maintenance to be paid in any given situation the judge will have regard for all of the circumstances including income, earning capacity, property and other financial resources. The court will also look at the financial and other responsibilities of the parties. The underlying concern is to provide proper provision in the particular circumstances.
Spouses can seek maintenance from one another in certain circumstances including in the context of a court application for a divorce or a judicial separation. Applications for maintenance can also be made to the District Court. Maintenance orders can also be made for the benefit of dependent children and this includes children born outside marriage.
Generally maintenance orders (in respect of a child) will continue for so long as a child is under 18 years of age or under 23 but in full time education OR is suffering from mental or physical disability to such an extent that it is not reasonably possible for him/her to maintain himself/herself fully.
Our experienced solicitors regularly attend the local district court seeking maintenance orders in a wide variety of circumstances. We will be able to advise you based on your own particular situation and financial needs.
If you have any queries in relation to maintenance please contact aoife@fof.ie or our general office at fof@fof.ie .Alternatively please telephone us on 059 9130500 to speak to a solicitor or to make an appointment.