NJ Child Support Modification
You find out your ex transferred to a new company, got a raise, and is now making more than six figures a year. Meanwhile, you’re struggling to make ends meet in your humble Kendall Park home. Your seven-year-old son Brandon lives with his mom and you think it would be fair if you contributed less.
You might ask yourself: how do I modify child support in NJ? How do I get my child support lowered? Should I get a lawyer for child support modification?
Those things are precisely what you should do.
Read on to find out how to get NJ child support modification.
How Do I Get My Child Support Lowered?
For child support to be lowered, the judge must find two facts to be true.
- If there is a substantial change in circumstances that affects the welfare of the child
- The modification is in the best interest of the child
You can consult with an attorney based in New Jersey for state-specific proceedings.
NJ Child Support Modification
In New Jersey, child support is determined by a variety of factors. These might include the level of both parents’ incomes, the number of children, or the custody agreement. The NJ court uses a formula or a child support calculator to decide how much child support is owed.
The law in New Jersey accounts for changes in circumstances. It allows these original support parameters to be modified.
Either of the parents can file a motion to reduce child support payments.
The parent who brings the motion must prove that they are experiencing “changed circumstances” as per the two facts we listed above.
If the judge finds the changed circumstances to be valid, they can lower the amount of child support owed.
Here are a couple of examples of major changes in circumstance considered in New Jersey:
- Unemployment/getting laid off
- Gaining a higher paying job
- Changes to parenting time for either parent
- Major health issues of the parent
- Major health issues of the child
- Permanent disability of the parent or the child
- Change in the child’s required expenses (e.g. they wish to go to an expensive college)
- Additional children
How do I modify child support in NJ?
When you wish to file a request, reach out to the New Jersey Child Support Enforcement. You may also contact 609-815-3810 to reach them.
If the original child support order was issued in another state, you would need to contact that state’s child support services instead.
You will then need to file a formal motion requesting a change in child support due to changed circumstances.
How About a Lawyer?
Absolutely get a lawyer. Each family’s situation is different and requires a different approach. Find an attorney that can use concrete facts to advocate your case to the judge or just for consultation services.
If you find yourself asking the questions, “how do I get my child support lowered in NJ” and “how do I modify child support in NJ, reach out to an experienced family law attorney. Dalena & Bosch are expert divorce lawyers who can help guide you in your effort to get NJ child support modification.