Determining appropriate child support amounts in New Jersey
When a couple decides to divorce, they do so knowing the great impact that it will have on their lives and the lives of their children. It is not a decision that is made without a lot of deliberation and is often thought to be the last resort. Custodial and child support agreements can be fraught with emotion, which can make the determinations even more difficult. Because of this, many divorcing parents turn to experienced New Jersey child support lawyers to help them with their cases.
After a child support agreement is in place, it does not mean that it will never change. There are a number of different situations that are the basis for a review and recalculation of the child support amount. If you are in such a situation, you may wonder if your change of circumstances is considered significant enough to prompt a change in your child support amount.
How custody agreements affect child support amounts
In today’s world, it is quite common for both parents to contribute to the financial support of their children. Also, in many situations, divorced parents share custody on an equal basis. In such situations, a change in either parent’s economic circumstances can be considered the basis for a new amount of support.
It is recommended that if there is a significant change in circumstances, the parents first work among themselves to make any necessary modifications to the support agreement. This helps the parents remember that they need to work together to successfully co-parent their children and that the needs of the children need to be put first. Unfortunately, there are many situations where this is not possible. Not all divorces are amicable and not all parents are reasonable. This is just the reality of divorce, and parents should not feel bad if they do have to rely upon legal assistance for a successful modification of their custodial or support agreement.
Extenuating circumstances that can affect child support payments
If your child is diagnosed with an illness or there is a situation where they will require additional services, it is only fair that such changes are reflected in the post-divorce agreements. It is unfair for one parent to carry more of the burden, either financially or emotionally. Another factor that can trigger a modification is a significant change in economic or employment status. For example, if the parent that had been a full-time caregiver has now returned to the workforce, their financial contribution should be reviewed.
In any modification request determination, the judge will review the financial status of both parents. The financial factors will be considered as well as the impact of any changes may have on the child. Modifications are not undertaken lightly, and the process can be quite involved. If you are in a situation where you believe that your current situation means that you should be paying less, or that your former spouse should be paying more, you will want to have a strong legal team backing you up.
The many benefits of lawyers who specialize in child support issues
Because the laws and determinations can be complex, experienced New Jersey child support lawyers are necessary. This is not a situation where you should attempt to go it alone, especially if the relationship with your former spouse is acrimonious! The judge in such an instance may require mediation as a first step. During the process, it is important to remember that the needs of the child should always take top priority. Don’t take any ill will that you may feel toward your ex out on your child. Try to look at the big picture and remember that you want what is best for the child, especially in a difficult situation.
Custodial changes can also prompt a need for a modification of child support payment amounts. If you and your former spouse used to split custody 50/50 but you are now taking on more duties, those changes should be reflected in the payment amounts. Many parents will try to use their children to attempt to improve their own financial situation, and if you feel you are being taken advantage of, you should definitely work with your lawyer to get the situation fixed.
In the event that child support is not being paid in accordance with the agreement in place, it could be time to take a closer look at the amount. Many parents are unable to financially support themselves due to the significant child support payments that they have to make. If this is the case, a request can be made for a review of both parent’s current financial status to see if changes are appropriate.
Non-payment of child support and agreement modifications
When a parent is no longer making payments as agreed, and there is no legitimate reason for the non-payment, it is advisable to seek legal advice. There are a number of different remedies for such situations, including wage garnishment and withholding tax refunds. Of course, no one wants to see things deteriorate to such a level, but sometimes it is necessary. In such situations, experienced New Jersey child support lawyers can help you achieve an amenable solution.
Child support agreements are not meant to last forever, and there are many factors that can make a modification necessary. New Jersey requires that both parents contribute to the financial care of the child and recognizes that it is unfair to place the economic burden solely on one of the parents. If you feel that you are stuck in a lopsided child support agreement, it may be time to seek advice about a modification.
Financial changes and situational adjustments
Divorce is never easy, and the financial toll that it can take can make it even more difficult. Fortunately, New Jersey’s child support guidelines help parents to navigate the system. Enlisting the help of experienced child support lawyers can also help to make a complex situation much more manageable. This is not something that you have to go through alone – there is help available! If you feel that you are subject to an unfair agreement and a change in financial circumstances is the basis for a corresponding change in your child support amount, do not hesitate to act.
New Jersey considers both financial contributions as well as other more subjective factors. If you are the full-time or main custodial parent, your efforts will be credited. However, it is important to be aware that as your child becomes more independent and requires less hands-on care, such as when they begin school full-time, you may be required to adjust your child support agreement.
Successful co-parenting is possible!
Navigating divorce, custody, and child support can all be managed quite successfully with good legal advice. There is no reason to remain in an agreement that is unfair. When you take the time to set up a fair and reasonable agreement from the outset, you can help to avoid more problems down the road.
If you want your divorce and child support situation to be fair and equitable, it’s time to turn to experienced New Jersey child support lawyers.
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