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How much child maintenance should a father pay in Dhaka?

Question:

One of my sisters got divorced and her husband wants to pay 1,500 per month for the child. The child is 4 years old. But in the current market, this money does nothing for a child in Dhaka city. How much money should he claim for his child? Small children have many essential expenses.

Answer:

In Bangladesh, child support is primarily determined based on the child’s needs, the father’s financial capacity, and the local living standards. While the law does not specify a fixed amount, there are general principles regarding child maintenance.

  1. Legal Standards for Child Support:
    • Under Bangladeshi family law, particularly the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, the father has a legal obligation to provide financial support to his child, which includes food, education, healthcare, clothing, and other essential needs. The amount should be reasonable and adequate to ensure the child’s well-being.
  2. Child Support in Dhaka:
    • Dhaka, being the capital city, has a higher cost of living compared to other regions. For a 4-year-old child, the essential expenses typically include:
      • Food: A nutritious diet is essential for a growing child.
      • Healthcare: Regular doctor visits, vaccinations, and health emergencies.
      • Education: Early childhood education, which may include daycare or kindergarten.
      • Clothing: Regular replacement of clothes and shoes as the child grows.
      • Other Needs: Toys, books, extracurricular activities, and general care.
    Given these expenses, the amount of 1,500 BDT per month is likely insufficient to cover even the most basic needs, especially in Dhaka.
  3. What Can Be Claimed:
    • Considering the living conditions in Dhaka, a reasonable amount for child maintenance would generally range between 5,000 to 15,000 BDT or more per month. This would depend on the father’s financial capacity, the child’s specific needs, and the standard of living required.
    • A court may assess the father’s income, the mother’s ability to contribute, and other relevant factors when determining the appropriate amount. In some cases, courts might order a higher amount if the father is well-off.
  4. How to Claim the Right Amount:
    • Your sister can file a petition in the Family Court to request a fair child maintenance amount. In the petition, she can provide evidence of the child’s essential expenses and the insufficiency of the current amount being offered. This can include receipts for childcare, education, and healthcare costs.