If you are going through a divorce, you may feel overwhelmed by many aspects of the intricate legal process. During the divorce process, you will be confronted with issues such as the division of assets and spousal support. However, when a divorce involves children, the process can become significantly more challenging as you must reach an agreement on child custody and child support. Many couples undergoing a divorce wonder how the amount of child support is determined and when a child support obligation ends. Continue to follow along to learn what age child support ends and discover how our dedicated Monmouth County Child Support Attorneys can help you understand your support obligations.
What does the court consider when determining support payments in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the Income Shares Method is used to calculate child support. Essentially, the amount of support is based on both parents’ combined income. Alongside using this calculation to determine the amount of support, the court considers several other factors. This includes but is not limited to the following:
- The age and health of each parent
- The number of children
- The custody arrangement
- Each parent’s earning capacity
- The income of each parent
- The needs of the child
- The standard of living of each parent
Does a child support obligation automatically end at a certain age?
In New Jersey, a child support obligation does not end until the child has reached the age of emancipation. The age of emancipation in New Jersey is 19. This means child support payments are usually made until a child reaches the age of 19. However, this age is not set in stone. Depending on your specific circumstances, certain exceptions can require a noncustodial parent to continue with support. Essentially, support payments may extend past the age of emancipation if the child is pursuing post-secondary education. The support payments would then be made until they graduate and are financially independent.
It is important to note that child support automatically ends if the child gets married, enters the military, or dies. However, the court can set another age for support termination if they deem it reasonable. For instance, a support obligation can extend until a child has reached the age of 23. Moreover, child support can be terminated early if the child is financially independent and over the age of 18. Nevertheless, keep in mind that even if a child support obligation ends, that does not mean the noncustodial parent does not have to pay unpaid back support (arrears).
For more information on how child support is determined in New Jersey, please contact one of our adept Monmouth County child support attorneys. Our firm is committed to helping our clients understand their child support obligations. Allow our firm to assist you today!
