Somerset County Child Support Lawyer
Given that no two families are alike and each one has its own unique needs, managing relationships and family dynamics could be a complicated matter. This is notably true when children are involved. If you have concerns about how child support obligations could affect you and your children, a Somerset County child support lawyer may be able to help.
Child support arises in many contexts, both inside and out of marriage. There are a number of different reasons why you might have concerns regarding New Jersey child support laws. By understanding some basic information about child support, you could better protect your legal parental rights with a dedicated family law attorney’s help.
Understanding Child Support Laws
Most states utilize a formulaic approach to determining child support obligations, and New Jersey is no exception. The standard formula followed in Somerset County is established in New Jersey Court Rule 5:6A Appendix IX-F.
Courts typically work to stay as close to the prescribed formula as possible and focus on three key elements to determine child support: fixed expenses, controlled expenses, and variable expenses. All combined, these entail costs involving and related to:
- Food
- Clothing
- Health care
- Transportation
- Educational expenses
- Housing and utilities
- Extracurricular activities
- Optional recreational and entertainment expenses
It is often important to work with an experienced Somerset County attorney to better prepare for the challenges of child support. Legal counsel could also help determine whether an individual is eligible to receive it or may be obligated to pay it.
Child Support Modifications in Somerset County
Once a child support order has been rendered, the involved parents must abide by the agreement’s terms. If exceptional circumstances arise, a proactive attorney could help individuals request a modification to the child support award.
As an example, an involuntary loss of employment could warrant a temporary modification of a child support order. Voluntary unemployment or even underemployment may not negate the obligation to abide by the terms of the child support agreement.
It is also important to keep in mind that courts may not recognize an agreement that limits or completely eliminates a child support agreement. A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement that dictates a specific child support payment, or one in which both parties agree that no such payment would be required in the event of divorce, is not likely to be upheld by any court.
As with many other aspects of family law, child support is a legal obligation and it is not possible to negotiate out of it. The courts look to the best interest of the child when determining a child support agreement. Parents who are interested in making child support modifications are advised to speak with a knowledgeable Somerset child support lawyer to learn their rights.
How a Somerset County Child Support Attorney Could Help
Child support could have a big impact on your child’s overall welfare. While the state’s approach to child support may seem straightforward, it is an important concern that requires a considerate and thorough approach to issues it may present.
If you have concerns about how child support might impact you and your family, contact an experienced Somerset County child support lawyer. A seasoned attorney could work with you to explore your legal parental options regarding child support. Call today to schedule a consultation.
