First and foremost, it is important to note that both parents, in terms of the Children's Act, have an equal responsibility to contribute towards a minor child's monthly expenses. Both parents have equal responsibilities and rights towards a minor child as well as equal rights of contact, irrespective of whether one parent contributes towards the minor child's monthly expenses or not. Contact with the minor child cannot be withheld by the one parent should the other parent not contribute towards maintenance, however, the failure to contribute towards maintenance is a criminal offence and a Section 31 summons may be issued.