contract-law
Can men in various countries make pre conception child support deals?
<p>Charlie Sheens are told to pay $50k a month for his child. What about before conceiving babies Charlie said, "Look, if I knocked you up, I would only spend $2k."</p>

<p>In theory, a girl may have to choose 2 options. $2k a month from a billionaire or a $1k a month from a welfare king. She may prefer the former and may agree to sign contract to get knocked up and get paid $2k a month child support. Say her next alternatives is picking much poorer man.</p>

<p>Is it legally binding?</p>

<p>In the US, no, courts would not enforce such a contract. It would be deemed not in the public interest, perhaps unconscionable. Of course, two willing adults could make and honor such an agreement but that would only work as long as the woman didn't change her mind. What is "fair" in a situation like this is a little tricky but, ultimately, any child's welfare is going to be a major consideration in any court decision.</p>

<p>First, the overriding concept in the US is the "child's best interest."  Given that the court may override prior stipulations.</p>

<p>Second, most courts seek a level of benefit for the child, where there lifestyle would be similar to what it would be if the parents were together, raising the child.  This is hard to implement, but radically disparate child support is unusual. (If you make allot, you are probably going to pay allot.)</p>

<p>In NY, when support is calculated, the worksheet will show what each parent's support would be if they were the custodial parent.  It's on the table.</p>

<p>One more consideration, and this has happened, that the disinterested parent suddenly decides that they want to be everything in the child's life and they now want "full custody" which if there were unlimited funds for litigation, could serve to starve out the poorer parent and flip the table.  </p>

<p>Choices based on greed may turn out very wrong for more than one party.</p>
