Determining a child support award is one of the most important parts of a divorce. Parents in New Jersey have an obligation to pay child support until the child turns 19 years old, unless they are emancipated prior to that time. Child support payments are paid by the noncustodial parent to the custodial parent. For the most part, child support in New Jersey is calculated based upon New Jersey’s Child Support Guidelines. In addition to the Child Support Guidelines, the court will take a number of other factors into consideration so they can determine the award that will allow the child to feel the least amount of financial impact of divorce. The goal is for the child to be able to continue living the same quality of life, even though so many other factors of their life will change.
Some of the many factors that the court may consider when determining a fair child support obligation include:
- The child’s needs
- The family’s standard of living before the divorce
- Each parent’s economic circumstances
- The income and earning capacity of each party
- Each family member’s age and health
- Any income, assets, and earning ability of the child
- Other children in need of support
- Other factors deemed important
Once these various factors have been taken into consideration, the court will have enough information to make an informed decision on child support. If you need assistance in a family law matter, contact an experienced attorney today.
If you require strong and dedicated representation for any of your legal matters, contact The Law Offices of George J. Mardinly to schedule a consultation.