The best interests of the children are always the primary focus when child support obligations are determined. The New Jersey Child Support Guidelines govern the calculation of child support in the majority of cases. Factors typically include the incomes and deductions of both parents, parenting time, childcare costs in establishing an appropriate amount. The loving support of both parents is an important ingredient to help children to grow into well-adjusted, responsible individuals.
Regardless of the relationship or living arrangements of divorced parents, it is the responsibility of both to ensure that their children have safe living conditions and sufficient food and clothing. In a child support case, a custodial parent typically provides the day-to-day care of the children, and a non-custodial parent is responsible for paying the court-ordered child support. Nevertheless, the non-custodial parent is an integral part of a child’s life and is much more than the obligor with regard to child support payments.
Non-custodial parents have the right to be involved in the lives of their children, except in those rare circumstances where a court has determined that it is in the best interest of the child to have no contact with a particular parent. Supporting a child requires much more than money, and parent-child relationships may benefit from co-parenting arrangements. Parents whose post-divorce relationships are amicable typically find that sharing the responsibilities of childcare is rewarding for both parents and children.
Although some New Jersey parents may find it difficult to communicate with former spouses or partners, an experienced family attorney may assist in addressing important issues. Alongside their respective legal counsels, parents can negotiate directly, and most child support issues can be resolved in accordance with statutory guidelines. Through communication and compromise, a co-parenting plan that is truly in the best interests of the children can be drafted and executed in accordance with applicable laws and court procedures.
Source: njchildsupport.org, “Child support is more than just money“, Accessed on Jan. 7, 2016
