Child support arrangements can be a source of considerable conflict for many divorcing couples. Working with an attorney who has experience and knowledge in these types of cases can provide added help for parents and can ensure the best outcomes for children in our area. Jenny Birz and the Birz Law team can provide the proven experience and expertise you need to resolve child support issues quickly and in the most positive way possible. Here are some of the most important points to keep in mind when negotiating child support arrangements in New Jersey or New York.
Basics of Child Support Arrangements
In general, child support is required from non-custodial parents as a way of providing adequate financial resources for raising children. Child support is required even if the parents of the child were never married. Child support is usually determined based on the financial resources and income levels of the custodial and non-custodial parent. In New Jersey, the non-custodial parent also receives credit for overnight parenting time. Some flexibility is possible for couples who can agree on a greater or lesser amount of child support.
Differences in New Jersey and New York Laws on Child Support
Working with a qualified attorney is generally the best way to determine the legal requirements for child support in your state. However, there are a few basic differences in the way the states of New York and New Jersey determine child support obligations:
• New Jersey requires child support to be paid for children under the age of 19 who have not yet left school or have not been emancipated by the court. In some cases, non-custodial parents may be required to contribute to the cost of college tuition by specific orders of the court. Child support payments are intended for use in providing for the child and typically are considered to include an allowance for food, clothing, and normal educational costs.
• In the state of New York, non-custodial parents must make child support payments until the child is 21 years of age or has been emancipated by the court. Child support typically is considered to include funds for food, clothing, health insurance and other normal and necessary expenses.
Jenny Birz is licensed to practice law in both New York and New Jersey. Her exceptional degree of expertise ensures that you and your children receive the support needed and that these arrangements are fair and equitable for all parties involved. This can ensure that your family enjoys the greatest financial stability and that your children are cared for after your divorce or separation is final.
Failing to Pay Child Support
Refusing to pay court-ordered child support payments can result in significant penalties and actions by the court against the non-custodial parent. Working with a qualified child support attorney is a good first step in ensuring that payments are made in a timely manner. For parents who believe that the child support payments they have been obligated to pay are unfair and unreasonable, working with a family law attorney can provide added help in negotiating lower payments and ensuring that child visitation rights are preserved.
At Birz Law, we offer caring and supportive legal services for divorcing couples and their children. Our team of family law professionals can provide you with workable options that can provide added help for all parties involved in the situation. We work with you to find the most practical and beneficial solutions for you and your children. Call us today at 201-701-1218 to discuss child support and other issues with our experienced legal team. We look forward to the opportunity to provide you with the right representation for your needs.