Försörjningsskyldig

Försörjningsskyldig is a Swedish legal term that translates to "liable for maintenance" or "maintenance obligation." It refers to the legal duty of one person to financially support another. This obligation typically arises in family relationships, most commonly between parents and children, and between spouses or former spouses.

The primary context for försörjningsskyldig is child support. Parents have a legal obligation to provide for the upbringing and maintenance of their children, regardless of whether they live together or are married. This obligation continues until the child reaches the age of 18, or longer if the child is still undergoing education after turning 18. The amount of child support is usually determined based on the child's needs and the parents' financial capacity.

Beyond child support, försörjningsskyldig can also apply to spousal maintenance. In cases of divorce or separation, one spouse may be obligated to financially support the other, particularly if there is a significant disparity in income or earning capacity, or if one spouse has sacrificed their career for the family. This type of maintenance is often temporary and aims to help the supported spouse become self-sufficient.

The legal framework for försörjningsskyldig in Sweden is primarily found in the Social Welfare Act (Socialtjänstlagen) and the Parents and Children Act (Föräldrabalken). Enforcement of these obligations is handled by social services or the courts. Failure to meet a försörjningsskyldig obligation can result in legal action, including wage garnishment or other measures to ensure payment.