Elatusapu

Elatusapu is a term used in Nordic family law to denote financial support provided to a child or a former spouse. The word combines elements meaning maintenance and aid in Finnish and is cognate with the corresponding term in related languages. In common usage, elatusapu refers to legally required payments designed to ensure the ongoing subsistence of dependents.

In Finland and Estonia, elatusapu may arise through court orders or written agreements between parents or former partners. A maintenance obligation typically covers child support, continuing until a child reaches adulthood or completes education, but it can also apply to spousal maintenance in certain circumstances. The amount and duration are determined by law, with the aim of reflecting factors such as income, needs, and standard of living. Changes in the payer’s or recipient’s circumstances can lead to modification, suspension, or termination of the obligation.

Enforcement of elatusapu varies by jurisdiction but may involve administrative authorities or courts that collect payments, address arrears, and enforce court decisions. Internationally, elatusapu concepts align with alimony or child support norms, though the precise rules and procedures differ between countries.

In contemporary usage, elatusapu is primarily encountered in legal contexts, including court rulings, mediation, and administrative arrangements. It is not a standalone benefit or program, but a legal obligation to provide ongoing support for dependents. The term remains a common shorthand in Finnish and Nordic legal discourse for financial arrangements underpinning family subsistence.