Bergen County Child Support Lawyer
Protecting Your Rights and Your Children’s Future
If you’re facing child support issues in Hackensack or anywhere in Bergen County, you need more than generic information — you need the guidance of an experienced Bergen County child support lawyer. At The Davies Law Firm, we help parents understand their rights and obligations while protecting their financial future and their children’s well-being.
How Child Support Is Determined in New Jersey
New Jersey follows strict Child Support Guidelines written into the Court Rules. These guidelines apply to most families, whether parents are married, divorced, or never married.
When calculating child support, the court considers:
Parental Income: Both parents’ wages, overtime, bonuses, and even self-employment income.
Childcare Costs: Expenses needed so parents can maintain employment.
Health Insurance: The cost of coverage for children and which parent pays.
Parenting Time: The amount of time children spend with each parent, which directly impacts the calculation.
Children’s Ages: Higher support is generally required once a child is 12 or older.
These factors ensure child support orders are fair, while keeping the child’s best interests the top priority.
When Child Support Ends in New Jersey
Many parents ask: When does child support stop? Under New Jersey law:
Support normally ends at age 19.
Payments may continue if the child is in college or higher education.
Child support ends at age 23, unless the child has a severe, permanent disability.
In some cases, support can end earlier (e.g., marriage, military service, or emancipation).
A knowledgeable Bergen County child support lawyer can explain your specific situation and petition the court if needed.
Payment and Enforcement of Child Support
There are two main ways to pay child support in Bergen County:
Direct payments between parents
Through the Probation Department where the divorce or separation was filed
If payments are missed, consequences can include:
Wage garnishment
Driver’s license suspension
Seizure of tax refunds
Even arrest and jail time
If you’ve fallen behind or need help enforcing an order, contact The Davies Law Firm for immediate guidance.
Modifying Child Support Orders
Life changes, and so can your child support order. You may request a modification if:
You’ve lost your job or suffered a major income change
Your child’s needs have significantly increased
The other parent’s income has risen substantially
Custody or parenting time has changed
Working with an experienced Bergen County child support lawyer gives you the best chance of successfully modifying your order.
Why Work With The Davies Law Firm in Hackensack
Child support disputes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle them alone. At The Davies Law Firm, we:
Explain your rights and obligations in plain language
Represent you in Bergen County family court proceedings
File for enforcement or modification when needed
Protect your financial stability and your children’s best interests
Call (201) 820-3460 or schedule a consultation online today.
Helpful Resources
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support in Bergen County
1. Do I really need a Bergen County child support lawyer?
Yes. While child support is guided by state formulas, every case has unique factors. A local lawyer ensures calculations are fair, filings are correct, and your rights are protected in Bergen County courts.
2. Can child support be reduced if I lose my job?
Yes. If you experience a significant change in circumstances, you can petition the court for a modification. Acting quickly with the help of a lawyer is important to prevent arrears from piling up.
3. What happens if the other parent refuses to pay child support?
The court can enforce payments through wage garnishment, tax refund seizures, license suspensions, or even jail time. An attorney can file enforcement motions to make sure support is paid.
4. Can child support cover college expenses in New Jersey?
Yes. Courts in New Jersey can order parents to contribute to higher education costs, depending on the family’s financial situation and the child’s needs. A lawyer can help negotiate or litigate these contributions.
