Mount Laurel Child Support Attorney

Helping You Determine a Fair Amount of Child Support

The state of New Jersey expects both parents to continue to support their children and be involved in their children's lives, after a divorce or after the birth of the child. One of you may be considered the parent of primary residence, while the other may be considered the parent of alternate residence. The parent of alternate residence often pays child support to the parent of primary residence. The goal is to make the transition as easy on the children as possible and to help keep their quality of life at approximately the same level as it was prior to the breakup.

At Fuhrman & Edelman we know how much your children mean to you and want to help you ensure that they are supported properly. We work with you and your spouse or co-parent to establish an amount of child support that is reasonable and within the state guidelines. Our competent family law attorneys have practiced in Mount Laurel and the surrounding areas in Burlington County since 1986. We have a good idea as to whether the courts will accept your suggested support arrangement or not.

We provide a free consultation with our Mount Laurel child support attorneys to help you! Call (856) 288-2772 to set-up an appointment.

How Is Child Support Determined?

All income from each parent is entered into a child support worksheet, which considers the standard expenses of raising a child. If a child has special needs, such as health concerns or learning disabilities that cost more, this may also be factored into the overall child support total.

Other considerations made while calculating child support include:

Children from other marriages or partnerships that each parent may have
Whether each parent is employed and his or her employment prospects
How much parenting time each parent has with his or her children

Do You Have to Pay Child Support if You Have 50/50 Custody in NJ?

The court may still order parents with shared physical custody to pay child support in New Jersey. The amount of child support is determined by a formula that considers both parents' income, the number of children, and the cost of living in the area. The formula is designed to ensure that both parents contribute equally to the financial support of their children.

The primary child support obligation is calculated by multiplying the non-custodial parent's net income by a percentage based on the number of children. For example, the percentage for one child is 17%, and the percentage for two children is 25%. The basic child support obligation is then adjusted for the cost of living in the area.

In addition to the primary child support obligation, the court may order the non-custodial parent to pay for the child's health insurance, daycare, and other expenses. The amount of these additional expenses is determined on a case-by-case basis.

The child support order is reviewed every three years to ensure it is still fair and equitable. The judge may modify the order if either parent's income changes significantly.

If a parent fails to pay child support, they may be held in contempt of court. Contempt of court is a serious offense that can result in fines, jail time, or both.

It is essential for parents to understand their child support obligations and to make sure that they are paying on time. Child support is not optional; it is crucial to ensure children have the financial support they need to grow up healthy and happy.

Our child support attorneys in Mount Laurel can explain the process, your options, and their potential consequences. We advise you on what your best decision may be based on their many years of experience with the family court system. Ultimately, the decision on how to proceed is up to you.

If your former spouse or co-parent is not paying child support, we can file for enforcement of court orders. This will compel him or her to pay current and withheld child support or risk losing his or her driver's license and spending time in jail. We can request garnishment of your former spouse or co-parent's wages, tax returns, or other income if necessary.

Schedule a free consultation at (856) 288-2772 or email us to discuss your child support concerns!

Commonly Asked Questions

How can I modify an existing child support order in New Jersey?

To modify an existing child support order in New Jersey, you must demonstrate a significant change in circumstances that warrants a review of the current support arrangement. This could include changes in income, employment status, or the needs of the child. The process typically involves filing a motion with the family court, where you will present evidence supporting your request for modification.

What should I do if my ex-partner is not paying child support?

If your ex-partner is not paying child support, it is important to take action promptly. You can file a motion for enforcement in the family court, which can compel your ex-partner to fulfill their financial obligations. The court has various enforcement mechanisms at its disposal, including wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, or even suspending the non-paying parent's driver's license.

Can child support be adjusted for changes in living expenses?

Yes, child support can be adjusted for changes in living expenses in New Jersey. If either parent experiences a significant change in their financial situation, such as a job loss or a substantial increase in income, they can petition the court for a modification of the child support order. The court will review the current financial circumstances of both parents, including income, expenses, and the needs of the child, to determine if an adjustment is warranted.

What are the consequences of failing to pay child support in New Jersey?

Failing to pay child support in New Jersey can lead to serious legal consequences. The court may hold the non-paying parent in contempt, which can result in fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time. Additionally, the court can take measures such as suspending the non-paying parent's driver's license or seizing tax refunds to recover owed support.

Can remarriage of one or both parents affect child support obligations?

A remarriage doesn’t directly change child support obligations, as these are based on the income of the biological parents. However, if the remarriage significantly alters financial circumstances, such as a new spouse contributing to household income or a parent leaving their job, a modification may be requested. The court will evaluate whether the change warrants an adjustment.

Does child support cover all expenses related to raising a child?

Child support is intended to cover basic needs like housing, food, and clothing. However, additional expenses—such as extracurricular activities or college tuition—may require separate agreements. Courts sometimes include these costs in the order, depending on a child’s unique needs and the financial situation of the parents. Discussing these expenses with an attorney during negotiations can help ensure they’re properly addressed and reduce future disputes.