Artikel 19

1. This Chapter shall apply to a decision rendered by a judicial or administrative authority in respect of a maintenance obligation. The term “decision” also includes a settlement or agreement concluded before or approved by such an authority. A decision may include automatic adjustment by indexation and a requirement to pay arrears, retroactive maintenance or interest and a determination of costs or expenses.
2. If a decision does not relate solely to a maintenance obligation, the effect of this Chapter is limited to the parts of the decision which concern maintenance obligations.
3. For the purpose of paragraph 1, “administrative authority” means a public body whose decisions, under the law of the State where it is established –
a) may be made the subject of an appeal to or review by a judicial authority; and
b) have a similar force and effect to a decision of a judicial authority on the same matter.
4. This Chapter also applies to maintenance arrangements in accordance with Article 30.
5. The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to a request for recognition and enforcement made directly to a competent authority of the State addressed in accordance with Article 37.