Parents can agree child maintenance privately without going through the Child Maintenance Service (CMS). A family-based arrangement avoids CMS fees but is not enforceable without a court consent order. Agreements must be reviewed as circumstances change.

• CMS can be avoided if both parents agree — saves fees
• Private agreements are not automatically enforceable
• Can be converted to a consent order by court
• CMS formula: based on income, number of children, overnight stays
• Either parent can apply to CMS if private arrangement breaks down

Legal reference: Child Support Act 1991; Children Act 1989; CMS Assessment Regulations