Understanding Child Support in New Jersey
Under NJ child support law, all parents have a continuous duty to provide financial support for their children. Child support payments will be made by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent to help cover the costs of raising the child.
What Age Does Child Support End in NJ?
The child will be deemed emancipated upon reaching the age of 18 if he or she has “moved beyond the sphere of influence” of his or her parents. However, there are certain circumstances whereby child support payments may continue, such as continued high school or physical/mental disability. These circumstances include a court order specifying a different age for termination of child support, a written request asking to continue child support payments is submitted, and more.
As of Feb. 1, 2017, the statute N.J.S.A. 2A:17-56.67 states, child support automatically terminates upon the child:
- Passing away
- Getting married
- Reaching the age of 19
- Entering military service
Calculating Child Support Payments in NJ
To determine the amount of child support, the court uses the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines. The amount of child support is based on the average amount of money that intact families spend on their children and the income of both parents.
According to NJChildSupport.org, the guidelines are used by:
"Determining income and deductions, using the Guidelines charts, calculating both parents' shares, and taking care of special add-ons, deductions, and poverty tests."
The NJ child support guidelines have different rules for sole parenting vs. shared parenting. While the guidelines apply to almost everybody, there are specific situations where the court may not use the guidelines in determining the amount of child support. For example, if a family has more than six children, is too poor to make payments, or has other problems, the family may be able to request the court to bypass the guidelines.
If you have bills related to caring for sick or elderly loved ones, high medical expenses, a disabled spouse who is unable to work, or something similar, then you can ask the court to make an exception for your child support case.
How Is Child Support Determined in New Jersey?
New Jersey family law court will determine how much child support is owed by considering:
- Needs of the child;
- Standard of living and economic circumstances of each parent;
- All sources of income and assets of each parent;
- Earning ability of each parent, including educational background, training, employment skills, work experience, custodial responsibility for children including the cost of providing child care and the length of time and cost of each parent to obtain training or experience for appropriate employment;
- Need and capacity of the child for education, including higher education;
- Age and health of the child and each parent;
- Income, assets and earning ability of the child;
- Responsibility of the parents for the court-ordered support of others;
- Reasonable debts and liabilities of each child and parent; and
- Any other factors the court may deem relevant.
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I started working with Joe Freda when I needed an attorney for custody and parenting time. Joe is so easy to talk to and has always explained everything clearly. He has always thought about what will be in my child's best interest. Joe continues to be easily accessible by phone or email when I need a question answered. I even followed Joe when he switched firms.! If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable family lawyer, then go with Joe.- Christine C. -
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After frustrating lack of results from another law firm, I was recommended to Mr. Passler and have since been able to sleep at night knowing he is intimately vested in our cause for our daughter. My case was not a divorce but about a parenting schedule, adversarial violations and safety and well-being issues for our special needs child. This law firm will stand up for your rights in a strategic and comprehensive manner. Mr. Passler is highly intelligent and experienced, and professional and courteous. You can be confident you will get impactful representation.- Vera -
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Why Choose DeTommaso Law Group, LLC?
What Makes Us Different
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Over 125 Years of Combined ExperienceAt DeTommaso Law Group, LLC, we believe that every client deserves unwavering support and a fearless advocate in their corner. We understand the emotional and legal challenges that families face during times of crisis, and we are committed to providing them with the strong, determined representation they deserve.
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Strategic & Aggressive Legal CounselOur team of experienced family law attorneys possesses extensive knowledge in the field. We stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments to ensure that we provide the most effective strategies and guidance to our clients. Our deep understanding of family law empowers us to navigate complex legal processes and provide insightful advice.
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Results-Focused Approach to Every CaseWe recognize that no two family law cases are the same. We tailor our approach to each client's specific needs and goals. By understanding their unique circumstances, we can develop personalized strategies that protect their interests and safeguard their rights.
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Fearless Advocacy & RepresentationWe refuse to back down when it comes to fighting for our client's rights. We are not afraid to take on challenging cases or confront difficult opponents. Our unwavering commitment to our clients drives us to explore every legal avenue and utilize our expertise to secure the best possible outcomes.