Ex won't pay child support

LLL11

Firstly apologies if there is a thread on this topic already or if it's in the wrong forum. I didn't find one exactly like I was looking for.

My son's dad and I broke up over a year ago. He has never paid for anything for our son even when we were together. To make things worse I stupidly loaned him thousands over the years and I never got a cent back. Now he's refusing to pay me anything for our son or to repay the loans. I know I'm not likely to get the money I loaned him back but how do I start the legal route to make him pay maintenance. Money is very tight for me at the moment.

He has also decided to move half way across the world for at least a year in a months time so I'm under pressure to get something sorted before he goes. He's also self employed and getting a lot of cash in hand so I don't see him being made to pay much.

I read somewhere that you're not entitled to free legal aid if you're earning over €18,000 which I am but I'm not earning big money. How much is a solicitor likely to cost me if that's who I should be getting in contact with?

What should my first step be? (Apologies for rambling and thanks in advance for any advice)

Evd-Burner

Go to your local court office to apply for a maintenance hearing, it's very easy to do. You just need yours, his and the childs details. Court can also be done without a solicitor if needs be. However legal aid is calculated on disposable income, see below.

http://www.legalaidboard.ie/en/Our-Services/Legal-Aid-Services/How-much-will-I-have-to-Pay-/Example-Calculation-of-a-contributio.html

What part of the country are you based? There are single parents groups that are really good, will help a lot regarding going to court without a solicitor. I've represented myself and although it was nerve wrecking at first but it's not something I worry about anymore after prepping.

nuac

Mod
Sorry cannot give legal advice on this forum
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