A child should not have to suffer simply because their parents’ marriage has failed. Rather, they should be able to keep up the lifestyle that was established for them and that they grew accustomed to when their parents were still together. This is one of the many reasons why child support is a pivotal term to be settled in a divorce case. So please continue reading to learn whether the New Jersey family court is required to order child support and how an experienced Bergen County child support attorney at McNerney & McAuliffe can serve as your child’s advocate during these proceedings.
Is the New Jersey family court required to order child support?
Yes, the New Jersey family court must order child support because it is your child’s fundamental right to receive financial aid from both parents. This right stands regardless of whether their parents have gotten a divorce, or if they never got married or lived together to begin with.
With that being said, a custodial parent may receive their child’s support payments through direct deposit or a New Jersey debit card. Then, they may use these funds to cover the expenses that come with raising their child alone for the majority of the time. Just some examples of such expenses include their child’s basic needs (i.e., food, clothing, and shelter), education (i.e., tuition and supplies), healthcare (i.e., insurance and copays), and recreational activities (i.e., sports and events).
How long is a child support order supposed to last?
Generally speaking, the New Jersey family court will order a child support arrangement to last until a child reaches the adult age of 19. This is not to say that the noncustodial parent will pay the same amount in child support until its finalization. Rather, this amount may fluctuate if either parent petitions for a post-judgment modification. For example, a noncustodial parent may petition to pay less if they experience a significant change in income (i.e., they lose their job or cannot return to work due to an incurred disability). Or, a custodial parent may request more if the child’s needs change (i.e., they now require special education or healthcare needs).
At any rate, a child support order may be extended to last longer, until a child reaches the age of 23, if there are exceptional circumstances at play. That is, if a child is still a full-time student at a university or college. Or, if a child is diagnosed with a severe physical or mental incapacity. Again, such an extension may require a custodial parent to file a formal request with the court.
Do not wait. Retain the services of a skilled Bergen County family law attorney from McNerney & McAuliffe. We look forward to working with you and taking on your case.
