Child maintenance may be agreed voluntarily or ordered by a court. The appropriate method depends on the parties’ circumstances, income and the child’s needs.
A claim should explain the requested form and amount and include evidence that allows the court to assess the family’s actual circumstances.
Fixed amount or share of income?
The method should reflect the payer’s income structure and the child’s needs. Irregular or foreign income may require a different evidential approach from stable employment.
- income and asset information
- education and medical expenses
- other dependants
- the child’s ordinary needs
How is an order enforced?
After an enforceable document is issued, the enforcement process should be monitored. Arrears, employer deductions, asset measures and challenges to enforcement action may require separate steps.
- submit the enforcement document
- keep payment records
- check arrears calculations
Documents and facts to prepare
- child’s birth certificate
- income information
- expense records
- prior agreements and payments
- addresses and contact data
Related legal services
Frequently asked questions
Can parents agree child maintenance without court?
Yes, a properly structured agreement may be possible. Its form and enforceability should be checked.
Can the amount later change?
Potentially yes if relevant circumstances materially change and the legal requirements are met.
Official sources
Check the current text of Ukrainian law in the Verkhovna Rada legislation database and court decisions in the Unified State Register of Court Decisions.