The shares set by law
Under article 99 of the Family Code, if the parents have no agreement on the maintenance of minor children, the court recovers alimony in these amounts:
- for one child — one quarter of the income;
- for two children — one third;
- for three or more children — half.
These shares are counted per month. They are taken from wages and other income.
The court can change the amount
The court may reduce or increase this amount. It takes account of the financial or family situation of the parties and other noteworthy circumstances.
A firm sum of money
If the income is irregular, comes in kind, or does not exist at all, the court may set alimony as a firm sum of money.
The agreement route
The parents may conclude an agreement on alimony. Under article 131 of the Family Code, the agreement is made in writing and must be certified by a notary. The amount named in the agreement may not be less than the amount the child would receive if a court awarded the alimony.