Morristown Child Support Lawyers Secure Your Future
Child support is often a critical question for both the custodial and noncustodial parent. The multitude of questions you may have can be overwhelming. Will I end up paying far more child support than I can afford? What expenses will child support cover? Will I receive enough to properly care for my children?
At the family law firm of Laufer, Dalena, Jensen, Bradley & Doran, LLC, in Morristown, we have handled hundreds of child support cases and claims for clients in Chester, Parsippany, Chatham and the greater Morris County area. Members of our attorney team are involved in numerous family law, mediation and settlement organizations, and have the experience and knowledge to answer your questions and provide comprehensive legal representation.
Do you have questions regarding child support? Are you concerned about the amount you may receive or will be required to pay? Are you involved in an enforcement dispute? We can help. Call 973-975-4043.
How To Calculate Child Support In New Jersey
In New Jersey, child support amounts are determined by statutes and guidelines, based on the children’s best interests. Though relatively inflexible, child support amounts can often be decreased or increased by an experienced child support attorney.
We can look at questions that can influence the amount of child support to be paid, and work to meet your child support payment goals. Factors include:
- The determination of each party’s income
- Imputation of income
- Age of the child/children
- The impact of overnight visitation on child support
- Medical insurance costs
- Existing court orders for children born of other relationship
Hidden income sources, self-employment, family-owned businesses and other factors can often make determining actual income difficult or complicated. Child custody arrangements also directly affect child support payments paid and received. We can examine all factors, advocate for your goals in negotiations, mediation and in court, and work to maintain your past lifestyle. For more information regarding child support contact one of our attorneys to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Child Support Obligations
Whether you expect to pay or receive child support, you probably have some important questions that are looming large in your mind. Here are some answers to the questions our clients ask most often:
What happens to child support if I lose my job?
There is no automatic relief from a child support obligation if you lose your job. This is true even in situations that many find surprising, such as when they are incarcerated. You remain responsible for the full payment and any arrears (past-due amounts) until the court modifies your official order of support.
How can an existing child support order be modified in New Jersey?
You can generally only request a modification of support if there are significant financial changes in your life that are beyond your control and likely to last for a while. This could include a job loss (after you have shown that you are unable to quickly locate a new position) or the onset of a significant health issue that has impacted your ability to work. You will generally not be able to modify support based on a temporary situation (such as a seasonal layoff) or in situations where you quit your job or were fired for just cause.
To request a modification of child support in New Jersey, you would generally file a motion with the Family Division of the Superior Court in the county where your initial order was established, along with any supporting documentation that speaks to your circumstances.
Keep in mind that other sources of income, including workers’ compensation and unemployment benefits, can be used to calculate your new child support obligation.
What are the consequences if a New Jersey parent refuses to pay child support?
Failure to pay court-ordered child support can result in a range of enforcement actions. The court can order your wages, unemployment, workers’ compensation and other income to be garnished. You can have your driver’s license and any professional licenses suspended. Your tax return and other assets can be taken. You can even be charged with criminal contempt of court and imprisoned.
Contact A Morristown Child Support Attorney Today
For experienced legal help with child support arrangements, contact the Morristown family law offices of Laufer, Dalena, Jensen, Bradley & Doran, LLC.
Many of our lawyers are AV Preeminent-rated, meaning they meet the highest industry standards of legal knowledge, ability to communicate with clients and legal experience.
We offer small-firm customer care combined with a team of knowledgeable and experienced lawyers. Many of our lawyers have been selected for inclusion in the Rising Stars Super Lawyers list as it relates to family law. For a list of our lawyers and the dates of their inclusion to Super Lawyers / Rising Star Super Lawyers, see the section below.
To speak with one of our family law attorneys today, contact us online or through our Morristown office at 973-975-4043.