The child's best interests come first
Separation or divorce changes the parents' relationship, but not their responsibilities towards their child. As a starting point, parental responsibility continues to be exercised jointly and equally, and parents are expected to seek mutually acceptable solutions. If cooperation is not possible, the court can determine the disputed issues.
The child's best interests are the guiding principle. Age, school schedule, health, emotional bonds, place of residence and each parent's ability to manage day-to-day care are assessed together rather than through an automatic formula.
How child support is assessed
Both parents are responsible for supporting their child, each in proportion to their financial resources. The amount is not taken from a single tariff. It depends on the child's actual needs and each parent's income, property, personal work and other obligations.
Relevant needs may include housing, food, clothing, healthcare, education, transport and activities, depending on the child's circumstances. Day-to-day care and benefits provided in kind are considered alongside cash payments. A substantial change in needs or financial capacity may justify a new arrangement.
- Evidence of income and assets
- The child's regular and exceptional expenses
- Medical, educational and other specific needs
- Each parent's practical contribution and daily care
Contact, overnight stays and daily routine
The parent with whom the child does not live has both a right and a duty to maintain broad contact. This may include in-person time, overnight stays, holidays and remote communication. The resident parent must facilitate regular contact unless exceptionally serious reasons justify a restriction.
Greek law contains a presumption that in-person contact amounts to one third of the total time, but this is not a rigid mathematical rule. Less or more time may be appropriate depending on living conditions and the child's best interests, provided that the child's daily routine is not disrupted.
Agreement, court protection and useful evidence
An agreement should be as specific as possible: residence, weekly schedule, public and school holidays, collections and returns, remote contact, allocation of regular and exceptional expenses and the process for major decisions. A change of residence that substantially affects contact requires a prior written agreement or a court decision.
Where agreement is not possible or urgent protection is required, interim or final court arrangements may be considered. Early collection of financial records, expense receipts, school and medical schedules and calm written communications helps establish the child's real needs.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute tailored legal advice. Every matter should be assessed according to its specific facts and available documents.