When a parent is awarded physical custody of their child, this means the child will reside with them the majority of the time. This requires that the parent provides the child with shelter, clothing, food, education, and other necessities. This can be expensive, so in many cases, the non-custodial parent will pay child support to help balance out the cost of living for the child. It is important to know that in New Jersey, both parents have a legal obligation to support their children financially until a certain point in the child’s life, known as the age of emancipation. Read on to learn more about child support in New Jersey.
What is the Age of Emancipation?
Child support payments may end when a child reaches the age of emancipation. In the state of New Jersey, the age of emancipation is typically 19 years old. It is important to know that there are exceptions in which the court may extend payments longer. This can be if the child wants to seek higher education, such as college or trade school. When this happens, they may not be deemed as emancipated until they finish their education. This requires parents to continue providing for the child during their ongoing education, while they cannot yet support themselves. However, if a parent believes that a child is independent and can provide for themselves, they can file a motion to emancipate the child. If the court approves this motion, child support payments may end.
What if I Don’t Pay Child Support?
Child support payments can be legally enforced. If you do not pay child support, you can face the following punishments:
- Taking money directly from the defaulting parent’s wages
- Redirecting a tax refund
- Credit reporting
- Seizing their property
- Suspending their driver’s license
- Denying them a passport
- Taking money from a civil award, settlement, or lottery winnings
If you have any questions or concerns regarding child support in New Jersey, contact our experienced firm today. We are here to walk you through your family law matters every step of the way.
Contact our Firm
We understand that those getting a divorce most likely have several questions regarding the weeks and months to come. Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC is honored to serve the people of New Jersey, including Sparta, Sussex County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Bergen County with the quality legal services they deserve. If you are getting a divorce or have any other questions regarding divorce-related matters, please do not hesitate to contact our firm for a consultation today.
