In Dnipro, a man paid UAH 130,000 in alimony. But the child turned out not to be his.

In Dnipro, a man who had been divorced from his wife for more than two years learned that the child for whom he was paying alimony was not his. As a result, he filed a lawsuit demanding the return of the alimony paid and compensation for moral damages.

The couple's divorce took place in March 2021 after more than nine years of marriage. By a court decision, the mother stayed with the girl and forced the father to pay alimony. From December 2021 to September 2023, the man paid over UAH 127,000 in alimony.

However, after a DNA test, it was established that the man is not the biological father of the child. He removed his mention from the records of parenthood and changed the girl's patronymic.

Having filed a lawsuit, the man demanded the return of the alimony paid and compensation for moral damage. But the court denied the recovery of the money, explaining that the alimony was issued compulsorily through the enforcement service. However, the case can be continued if the decision on alimony payment is canceled due to a new circumstance - the determination of paternity.

In another court, it was decided to review the case and cancel the alimony payment decision since the man did not have reliable information about his parenthood. Thus, the former wife was ordered to pay the court fee and attorney's fees.

More Responsible Attitude Towards Alimony Payment in Ukraine

In 2024, Ukrainians began to take a more responsible attitude toward alimony payments, as there is a risk of losing a deferment from mobilization. According to the Ministry of Justice, compared to last year, there is a 30% increase in alimony payments. Parents who support three minor children or regularly pay alimony can receive a deferment from mobilization.