A child may already play sports, take music lessons or participate in clubs when parents separate. One parent may want to continue an activity while the other objects to the schedule or its effect on parenting time. Whether one parent can decide alone depends on the...
Family Law
Can parents change a New Jersey custody or parenting-time order?
Parents in New Jersey can modify an existing custody or parenting-time order, but courts require a valid reason before making a change. Because judges focus on the child’s stability, a parent must show that a major change in circumstances directly affects the child’s...
Who claims children on taxes after a New Jersey divorce?
After a New Jersey divorce, parents may need to decide which parent claims their children on federal tax returns. Shared parenting time can make this question more complicated. Federal tax rules determine eligibility, while a divorce agreement may address how parents...
What happens to retirement accounts during divorce?
Retirement savings often represent one of the largest marital assets. During divorce, these accounts may require careful valuation and division to ensure a fair property settlement. Understanding how retirement accounts and deferred compensation are handled can help...
What happens when one parent violates a child visitation order?
A parenting schedule helps provide stability for children after a divorce or custody case. When a parent ignores a court-approved visitation order, it can disrupt the child's routine, strain the parent-child relationship and create ongoing conflict. In New Jersey,...
When should you seek a modification for a parenting plan?
Parenting plans outline the responsibilities and time-sharing arrangements between parents after a divorce or separation. However, life changes, and situations arise that may require a modification to the existing plan. In New Jersey, specific circumstances can...
What is a parenting plan?
Divorce often brings significant challenges, particularly when children enter the picture. A parenting plan establishes a structured agreement between you and your co-parent. It outlines responsibilities and expectations for your child’s care. This framework creates...
How does mental health affect child custody decisions?
Courts prioritize a child’s well-being when determining custody arrangements. If one or both parents have mental health challenges, the court considers how these issues might impact parenting abilities. Judges assess whether a parent’s condition affects their ability...
Taking more parenting time can mean lower child support payments
Parents must balance many aspects of life after divorce, which sometimes includes both parental obligations and child support payments. That is why, in New Jersey, child support calculations often consider the amount of parenting time each parent has. The state uses...
Common misconceptions about child support
Child support can be a confusing topic, and many people misunderstand how it works. Understanding the truth behind child support laws in New Jersey helps parents better navigate their responsibilities. You may find it helpful to understand some common myths and...
