Child support is designed to ensure that both parents contribute to meeting a child’s financial needs after a separation or divorce. But this can get affected as children’s needs and a parent’s financial circumstances can change over time.
For this reason, New Jersey law allows parents to modify a child support order when their circumstances change significantly.
Changes that may support a modification
The change in circumstances must be substantial and permanent, not just a minor or temporary change. The courts should see that it significantly affects what a parent can pay or what a child needs. Depending on the circumstances, the qualifying factors that may affect support include:
- A significant change in income: A substantial increase or decrease in either parent’s income may affect the amount of child support owed.
- A change in parenting time: Changes in parenting-time arrangements may affect the child support amount.
- Changes in the child’s needs: Significant increases in the child’s health, education or childcare costs may support a request for additional support.If a parent’s circumstances have changed enough to justify a modification, the parent can file a motion or application with the Family Division of the Superior Court and provide information supporting the requested change. This allows the court to review the circumstances and apply the applicable child support guidelines.
Keep child support on track
Understanding whether your circumstances qualify for a modification can help you take the appropriate steps to keep your child support order current. An experienced New Jersey family law attorney can explain the requirements and guide the parent through the modification process.
