Divorce has the power to change the life and upbringing of a child. The life they once knew is different and they are forced to adjust. It is because of this that courts try to ensure the child still lives a stable life. This is why child support may be paid from one parent to another. Doing so allows the child to maintain the same standard of living they were accustomed to before the divorce.
The amount a parent is required to pay in child support is determined by a judge. This is done by following the calculations of the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines. The format calculates the child’s living expenses with the family’s. This is also done along with the consideration of several other factors relating to the family. A judge may consider the parents’ financial status, the needs of the child, each parents’ work history, the parents’ earning capacity, the cost of providing for the child, and more. This process lets the judge determine what parents can afford to give their child a stable life.
Age of Emancipation
The parent who spends the most amount of time with their child is the custodial parent. This is the parent with physical custody. When they acquire this type of custody, the parent is required to provide their child with constant shelter, food, clothing, and more. These expenses can often become difficult for one parent to take care of on their own. This is why the non-custodial parent is required to financially assist the child as well. Doing so makes sure the cost of living for their child does not become overwhelming for one parent to handle. Support payments end when a child reaches the age of emancipation. In the state of New Jersey, this age is generally 19 years old.
While the emancipation age is usually 19 years old, family circumstances are subject to change throughout life. Certain life situations may require support payments to be extended. Courts handle child support cases uniquely and therefore may make exceptions to the emancipation age. For example, if a child decides to pursue higher education, such as college or trade school, support payments may be extended until they finish their education. This requires parents to continue assisting their child when they are not able to do so themselves. However, if a parent believes that a child can provide for themselves, they can file a motion to emancipate. When a child is deemed emancipated by the court, child support payments may end.
Contact our Firm
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.