When marriages end in divorce, the well-being of the children is something that needs to be kept in mind. Children can be sensitive during this time. They need to be reassured by their parents and get the attention that can comfort them. For these children, it is important that their best interests are kept in mind when making decisions. Some couples are able to make decisions for their family by going through the process of mediation to come to a resolution for child support. However, other couples may have to enter into litigation to reach a conclusion.
When does child support end?
In the state of New Jersey, there is no definite age when child support ends. There is an option for one parent to release the other from their duty to pay child support. This must be done in a written agreement to prove its validity. Child support may also end when a child turns 19 and is financially independent. A parent can ask the court to file papers to name the child as emancipated, which ends the child support structure.
How is child support decided?
New Jersey child support laws were created to put the needs of the child first. The courts review various factors to decide the best support structure to decide the proper child support that needs to be provided. These factors consist of the financial status of each parent, each party’s work history and each party’s earning capacity. In addition, the income, debt and assets of each parent are considered. This can all help to determine how much each parent can provide for the child. The amount of time the child spends living with each parent is also taken into consideration. These factors take into account how much each parent provides for the child throughout the years and how much they can provide in the future to ensure a stable living situation for the child.
The well-being of the child must be examined as well. Since the court needs to decide with the best interests of the child in mind, they consider a variety of factors relating to the child’s overall health. This includes the child’s needs, age, health, education and the cost of providing for the child, including daycare. These aspects help decide how much child support is needed to keep a consistent living for a healthy child or to improve their overall well-being.
Our firm understands that so much of your future is on the line in matters of divorce, family law, bankruptcy, and estate planning. Before taking any sort of legal action, it is important to discuss your legal matter with an experienced attorney. Contact The Radol Law Firm to discuss any divorce and family law matters you may be faced with.