Determining Child Support in New Jersey
In New Jersey, in stark contrast to the determination of alimony, child support is generally calculated by formula pursuant to the “Child Support Guidelines” which are set forth in Appendix IX to the New Jersey Rules of Court. Same take into consideration a host of factors including each parent’s income, alimony paid by either parent to the other, health insurance premiums or work-related child care incurred for the child(ren), and the extent of the non-custodial parent’s overnight parenting time. Child support awards under the Guidelines encompass three categories of spending related to children.
These categories include:
- “Fixed” costs (representing 38% of relative spending on children) which are incurred even when a child is not in a parent’s physical custody such as rent or mortgage payments, utilities, household furnishings, and household care items.
- Variable costs (representing 37% of relative spending on children) which “follow the child” and are incurred only when a child is in the physical custody of a parent such as transportation and food.
- Controlled costs (representing 25% of relative spending on children) which are generally “controlled” by a child’s primary caretaker such as clothing and entertainment expenses.
How Long Does a Father Have to Pay Child Support in NJ?
According to New Jersey law, a father must continue child support payments until their child reaches the age of 19. After that, a father must pay child support unless a judge orders exceptions specifying another age for termination. However, the age does not extend beyond when the child turns 23.
Following divorce or separation, each parent has a continuing obligation to financially support their child(ren) until emancipation. The right to child support is considered to be the child(ren)’s as opposed to the custodial parent’s. At Ziegler Law Group LLC, our team of skilled matrimonial law attorneys are experienced in the interpretation and application of the Child Support Guidelines and related statutory and case law. We can help ensure that a fair assessment of your family’s circumstances is made and that you and your children can continue to thrive after your marriage.
Contact usat (973) 533-1100 today for an assessment of your specific circumstances. Our team is ready to hear your family’s story.
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Livingston Family & Divorce Attorneys
Divorce Counsel That Lights the Way Forward in Livingston, Hackensack, & More
If there’s one thing our divorce lawyers have learned over our decades of combined legal experience, it’s that no two cases—no two couples or families—are the same. That is why Ziegler Law Group LLC is dedicated to a personalized approach to divorce representation. At our firm, our family law attorneys never lose sight of the individuals behind our cases and partner with these clients as they face this turbulent time. We listen to their goals and concerns and proactively seek favorable results on their behalf both in and outside the courtroom. At Ziegler Law Group LLC, our clients and client families can always rest assured that their interests and well-being will remain an absolute priority as we help navigate them towards a brighter phase of their lives.
You do not have to face this uncertain time without a zealous and compassionate advocate by your side. Schedule a consultation with a divorce lawyer in NJ today. In addition to Livingston, we also have a location in Hackensack, NJ.
