New Jersey couples who have gone through a divorce know that separation can take a major emotional toll. Things become even more complicated when there are children involved. That’s why parents should understand some of the considerations that are made when it comes to child support.
Courts typically require one ex-spouse to pay the other child support. Judges want to make sure that the children are able to maintain their same standard of living after the divorce. Guidelines are set out in each state that courts must follow as they determine who pays child support and how much will be paid. However, judges are allowed to deviate from the guidelines if it is appropriate to do so. In some cases, the court will allow the parents to make their own arrangements.
No matter how the calculations are done, the focus is on providing support for the parent who will cover the majority of the child’s expenses. Some factors that are taken into consideration include health insurance, childcare, school expenses and education. The courts will look at the circumstances of the parents, including who works and how much they make, who spends the majority of time with the children and how many children need to be supported. The child support may be changed if either parent experiences a change in circumstance, like the loss of a job or a disability.
Parents often have questions as they try to work out child support and alimony. An individual who is going through this process may wish to consult with a family law attorney. Legal counsel could represent the client in court and argue for their abilities as a parent. They could also help with drawing up documents, like visitation plans, and provide advice on a variety of different legal issues that affect families.
