How to conduct a section 6 maintenance enquiry

• We define the role of the maintenance officer
• What must a maintenance officer first establish when a maintenance complaint is received?
• Clarification and explanation of case law pertaining to section 6 enquiries, jurisdiction, defining “care” and “care-giver”
• An outline of how a section 6 enquiry is conducted
• Confirmation of paternity (and DNA tests) explained
• What are my rights when it comes to maintenance?
• Interim maintenance orders discussed and when to apply for an interim maintenance order
• Discussion of consent orders (J214)
• What happens it the respondent (father) does not show up at Maintenance Court on the day of the enquiry?
• What happens if the respondent (father) did not bring the required information on the day of the enquiry?
• Brief discussion of maintenance mediation (this will be dealt with extensively in a future webinar)
This section contains pre-reading material that you should read through at your leisure before the webinar.  The webinar handout you would find on the next tab – we suggest that you download and print the handout / webinar material before the start of the webinar as we will be referring to sections in the handout during the course of the webinar.

 

Pre-reading material: How to prepare for a section 6 maintenance enquiry 

Lunch and Learn is a social responsibility project overseen by Oppermans Inc, a family law practice with more than 24 years of experience. The weekly webinars are provided free of charge, aimed at creating awareness on child maintenance. This webinar was pre-recorded at the end of 2023, and the information contained therein was (and still is) correct at the time of recording—the Maintenance Act or Rules has not been amended or changed since. Discussions of relevant case law dealing with specific maintenance issues are found under the “free resource library” tab on the home page.

Affidavits referred to, or templates provided, are mere examples that could be used and should be customized to your specific matter. These documents, such as affidavits cannot be considered “outdated.” The additional speakers on some of these webinars were invited guest speakers who have participated out of their free will and have no affiliation or association with Lunch and Learn.

The details contained in these webinars are for educational and informative purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. You are strongly advised to consult with an experienced legal practitioner for advice on your specific maintenance matter.

How to conduct a section 6 maintenance enquiry

If you have any enquiries / questions relating to this module or wish to schedule an appointment for a in person consultation with a specialist maintenance attorney at the offices of Oppermans Inc in Gordons Bay or a virtual consultation, please send us an email using this form and one of our panel of attorneys will respond as soon as possible.