Child Support

questions & answers

Question: Can a pendente lite for child support be obtained if parents were never married and are awaiting a child custody trial?

Answer:

The following is provided for general information only. To find out how the law applies to a specific situation, contact an attorney directly. 

Pendente Lite  is a way a court can describe a court order only in effect until the end of the law suit. Per Arizona Revised Statute 25-503, in a proceeding, such as a child custody trial, a court may order one or both parents to provide financial support for a child’s needs. See also ARS 25-320 regarding the court’s powers to order child support and factors in determining child support.  Some of the county superior courts have forms that may be used when applying for the order, for example, Maricopa County Superior Court's is here.  To find a superior court in a different county use the Supreme Court's Court Locator.  For general information regarding child support please visit AZLawHelp's "Child Support Article."

Family law matters are very complex; thus, detailed legal advice provided by an attorney is helpful. For possible legal aid options, see this link.