Guidelines
Child support is calculated by utilizing the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines for all parties that fall within the income parameters set forth in the guidelines. Factors to be considered in the establishment of a child support award include the parenting time schedule, the incomes of the parties, child care expenses and alimony. The court will further consider support responsibilities for children of other relationships. While alimony for a supported spouse is based on the marital standard of living and income, children are entitled to participate in post divorce increases in a parent's income.
Non-Guidelines
For those families that enjoy incomes exceeding the guidelines, we have the experience and skill needed to advocate for appropriate child support using the factors detailed in the New Jersey child support statute and the case law. The court must utilize the Child Support Guidelines to determine the amount of support up to the guidelines maximum, and thereafter the amount of support is up to the court’s discretion. Factors to be considered in the establishment of a child support award include the parenting time schedule, the incomes of the parties, child care expenses and alimony. While alimony for a supported spouse is based on the marital standard of living and income, children are entitled to participate in post divorce increases in a parent's income. When looking at the discretionary factors, the court looks at numerous factors, including the needs of the child, the standard of living and economic circumstances of each parent, the income, assets and earning ability of the child and the responsibility of the parents for the court-ordered support of others.