The CSA and Reciprocal Enforcement of Maintenance Orders
The Child Support Agency can only deal with an application for child maintenance when both parents and the child live in the UK. However we may be able to help in some exceptional circumstances. Find out if these circumstances apply to your case.
If the non-resident parent lives abroad and does not fall into one of these categories, then the parent with care can apply to the UK courts for child maintenance.
If the parent with care needs help in collecting the money awarded under the court order for maintenance they can contact the Reciprocal Enforcement of Maintenance Orders (REMO) section at the Official Solicitor & Public Trustee.
Find out more information about REMO and how you can apply through the courts.
Enforcement action
The application abroad will be enforced according to the laws that prevail in the foreign country. The UK authorities have no power to compel foreign courts or authorities to enforce maintenance orders, or to set a timescale for enforcement, as the system is based on mutual agreement. Every effort is made, however, to encourage foreign agencies to abide by their countries' international obligations.
Generally, detailed legal advice to applicants or others is not provided; this is the responsibility of the courts. However, general procedural guidance can be given.
- The role of the REMO Section in England and Wales
- The role of the REMO Section in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The role of the REMO Section in England and Wales
The REMO Section of the Official Solicitor & Public Trustee is the authority in England & Wales for transmitting and receiving applications for maintenance enforcement if the absent parent lives abroad. It also takes the lead in REMO policy matters for the UK as a whole, in consultation with colleagues at the Scottish Government and the Northern Ireland Court Service.
The role of the REMO Section in Scotland and Northern Ireland
- Scotland: The Scottish Government handles REMO applications between Scotland and foreign jurisdictions. For further details please contact the The Scottish Government Justice
- Northern Ireland: The Northern Ireland Court Service handles REMO applications between Northern Ireland and foreign jurisdictions.
If you would like further information on how to apply through the courts contact the REMO section at the Official Solicitor & Public Trustee or call 0845 345 5303.
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