Guide to Alimony after Divorce in Greece: Legal Framework, Examples of Alimony Calculation

Legal Framework for Child Support After Divorce

The legal framework governing child support after divorce in Greece is outlined in the Civil Code, specifically articles 1389-1402 and articles 1485-1493. The Civil Code stipulates that in the event of a marriage dissolution, parents are obligated to provide support for their minor children, taking into account the child's needs and the parents' financial capabilities.

Child support includes all necessities for the child's livelihood, such as housing, clothing, food, education, and medical care. Courts calculate the amount of child support based on the family's standard of living before the separation, as well as the current financial capacities of the parents.

Calculation of Child Support: Step by Step

Step 1: Determining Family Needs

First, the total monthly needs of the family are calculated based on the standard of living that the parents had before the divorce. This includes the child's needs for housing, food, clothing, education, and recreation.

Step 2: Calculating Parents' Financial Capabilities

Next, the incomes and assets of the parents are taken into account. Additionally, their fixed expenses and debts are calculated to determine their net financial capabilities.

Step 3: Allocation of Needs

The child's needs are allocated between the parents, depending on their financial capabilities. Typically, the parent with greater financial means takes on a larger portion of the support.

Step 4: Determining Monthly Child Support

The final amount of monthly child support is determined based on the calculations mentioned above. This amount can include support for food, educational expenses, medical care, and other necessary expenses.

Example Calculation

Let's look at an example to understand how child support is calculated.

Example 1:

• Parent A: Monthly income of 6,000 euros, expenses and loans of 1,000 euros.
• Parent B: Monthly income of 1,200 euros, expenses and loans of 200 euros.
• Minor child: Age 7, total monthly needs of 1,100 euros (food, education, medical care, recreation).

The total monthly needs of the family amount to 3,000 euros. The parents' contribution to the child's needs is calculated based on their net financial capabilities:

• Parent A: 6,000 euros (income) - 1,000 euros (expenses) = 5,000 euros.
• Parent B: 1,200 euros (income) - 200 euros (expenses) = 1,000 euros.

The child's monthly needs amount to 1,100 euros. Parent A, with greater financial capacity, takes on the larger share of the support:

• Parent A: (5,000/6,000) * 1,100 = 916.67 euros.
• Parent B: (1,000/6,000) * 1,100 = 183.33 euros.

Therefore, Parent A is required to pay 916.67 euros per month for child support, while Parent B contributes 183.33 euros.

Child Support Calculation Tool

To facilitate the calculation of child support, you can use the following table:

Tips for Parents

1. Evaluate Your Financial Situation: Record your incomes, expenses, and debts. This will help you understand your financial capabilities and prepare for the allocation of expenses.
2. Maintain the Child's Standard of Living: Child support should ensure that the child continues to live at the same or similar standard of living that they had before the divorce.
3. Consult a Legal Advisor: Contact a lawyer specializing in family law to receive expert guidance and ensure your rights are protected.

Conclusion

Child support after divorce in Greece is a complex issue that requires a detailed analysis of financial data and the needs of the parties involved. Court decisions are based on the standard of living the family had before the separation, adjusting the amount of support accordingly. By using the examples and calculation tool provided above, parents can gain a better understanding of their obligations and prepare appropriately for the new reality after the divorce.