Family Violence and Child Support: Abuse, Shared Parenting, and Special Expenses

Authors

Joanna Radbord

First Page

109

Document Type

Article

Abstract

This article addresses specific sections of the Federal Child Support Guidelines which are particularly problematic for survivors of family violence: (a) section 9 in relation to child support in circumstances of shared parenting time, and (b) section 7 dealing with special or extraordinary expenses. Child support in Canada currently functions as an application-based system within an adversarial context, which creates significant barriers to child support for victims of abuse. In relation to shared parenting, a presumptive reduction in the quantum of child support is likely to exacerbate systemic inequalities and further disadvantage survivors of family violence—disproportionately women and children. This article also questions the existing approach to child support for special and extraordinary expenses and proposes alternatives which would promote access to justice and substantive equality for victims. Applications for child support should not facilitate and reinforce the harms of family violence but should instead promote children’s best interests.

Recommended Citation

Joanna Radbord, "Family Violence and Child Support: Abuse, Shared Parenting, and Special Expenses" (2025) 36:1 Can J Fam L 109.