Rent or mortgage on the house where the child lives It is highly recommended to consult a family lawyer if you have problems with the maintenance of the child, even if you can only afford one or two sessions. A good family lawyer can help: Child Maintenance Options can talk to you about the preliminary and negative aspects of private agreements and help you decide if this option is right for you and your child. There is now a growing number of separated parents who would prefer to conclude a private maintenance contract for family allowances rather than request the determination of maintenance payments for children through the legal procedure. These parents believe that the provision of family allowances is a private matter between them. A trusted lawyer can play an important role in supporting issues related to child care, home and finances. For example, pensions or housing to be clarified, you can ask the court to include your support contract as part of the final court order.