Determining Child Support
When parents split up, they both have an ongoing financial obligation to their children. The level of child support is based on statutory guidelines, but there may be reasons to deviate up or down from the presumed payment schedule.
The Law Office of Rajeh A. Saadeh, L.L.C., provides legal counsel for the initial determination of child support, in the context of divorce or in custody proceedings involving unmarried parents. We will go to court to ensure that the level of support is fair and reflects the child’s needs.
Worried about child support?
We handle divorce and family law in Middlesex County, Somerset County, Hunterdon County, Morris County, Union County and Mercer County. Reach out to us today.
How Is Child Support Determined?
Unlike alimony, the amount and duration of child support is not subject to negotiation or the discretion of the judge. New Jersey child support laws provide fairly straightforward child support guidelines. The support calculator factors in both parents’ incomes, any alimony paid or received, the number of children, the ratio of parenting time and additional obligations such as the cost of health insurance for the child.
However, you may need an attorney to petition for greater or lesser child support in cases involving any of the following factors:
- Imputing income of a self-employed or underemployed parent
- Underreported income of the custodial parent
- Incomes above the New Jersey guidelines
- Travel costs associated with parental relocation
- Private school tuition or special needs of the child
We Go To Court On A Regular Basis
In the case of high earners whose income exceeds the child support guidelines, additional support may be warranted. If the parents cannot agree on an amount, the court must weigh the ability to pay against the actual needs and accustomed lifestyle of the child.
Rajeh A. Saadeh is a skilled trial lawyer who has litigated initial child support in the local family courts. He also has experience with post-divorce modification, enforcement and termination of child support.
To discuss your concerns about financial support or related matters of divorce and custody, call 908-396-8330 to arrange a consultation at our law office in Bridgewater.
