This refers to court-ordered payments for the support of a child covering a period prior to the date the child support order was established. For instance, if a parent petitions for child support two years after separation, the court might order payments to cover a portion of those preceding two years, based on the child’s needs and the parents’ financial circumstances during that time. This type of support aims to address unmet financial obligations from the past.
It serves to ensure that children receive consistent financial care, even if there was a delay in formalizing a support arrangement. Historically, its availability and application have varied widely depending on jurisdiction, reflecting differing legal perspectives on parental responsibility and the timing of financial obligations. Establishing this type of support can be crucial in cases where one parent has disproportionately borne the financial burden of raising the child.
