When a couple with children decides to get a divorce, there are a lot of different matters to determine. One of the most important matters is that of child support. The goal of child support is to ensure that the child’s standard of living is the same or better than before the divorce. Child support can be a complicated issue. Read on to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions regarding child support in New Jersey.
How Does the Court Determine the Amount of Child Support Payments?
In order to make a decision about the amount and frequency of child support payments, the court will examine the following factors:
- The parenting/ custody structure
- The child’s needs
- The child’s needs and capacity for education, including higher education
- The standard of living
- Each party’s financial situation
- Each parent’s assets and liabilities
- Earning capacity of each party
- Age and health of the parents and the child
When Does the Responsibility to Provide Child Support End?
Generally, child support payments can end at the age of emancipation. In New Jersey, the age of emancipation is 19-years-old. But, payments may be extended for a variety of reasons. For example, child support may be extended if the child intends to pursue higher education.
Can the Amount For Child Support Payments be Altered Over Time?
Child support can be altered, but this is not always easy to do. In order to modify your child support arrangement, you will have to prove to the court that a major life change has occurred that will affect your finances for the foreseeable future. Some examples of this include:
- One parent has seen an increase or decrease in yearly income
- One parent has either lost their job, or, on the flip side, received a promotion
- The supporting parent has recently been injured or has developed a medical condition resulting in hefty bills
- The federal income tax law has changed
- One of the parents has recently lost their home
- One of the parents remarried and no longer requires child support from the other parent
If you have any questions or concerns regarding child support in New Jersey, contact our firm today to discuss.
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.
