Termination of Child Support at Age 19 in New Jersey
Child support orders are part of every divorce involving minor children, as well as other custody disputes between unmarried parents. While you might expect child support to end when the child turns 18 and becomes a legal adult, this is not always the case. In New Jersey, a law passed in 2017 established 19 as the age when the child support obligation ends. But child support can even be extended beyond that age in certain circumstances. Read on to learn more about the termination of child support at age 19 in New Jersey. For help with child support, child custody, or other family law members in Union, Essex or Middlesex County, call on the Law Offices of John B. D’Alessandro to share your concerns with a skilled and experienced Union, NJ, family law attorney.
Understanding Child Support Termination in New Jersey
In many states, child support obligations terminate when the child turns 18. However, in New Jersey, the law has a different set of criteria. Contrary to popular belief, child support doesn’t automatically stop at 18. The legal age for child support termination in New Jersey is typically when the child turns 19. This law is based on the recognition that children often require financial assistance beyond their 18th birthday, especially when they pursue higher education.
Does Child Support Stop at 19 in New Jersey?
The answer to this question is generally yes, but with some exceptions. Under the New Jersey Child Support Program, the age of 19 is usually the standard cut-off point for child support obligations. However, the law provides for certain circumstances where child support may continue beyond this age.
In cases where the child is still in high school, enrolled in a full-time post-secondary education program, or has a physical or mental disability that occurred before turning 19, child support can extend beyond the age of 19. In fact, it can continue until the child reaches the age of 23 under certain circumstances.
It’s also crucial to understand that any changes in the child’s situation, like leaving school or acquiring a full-time job, could impact the continuation of child support. Getting married or entering military service can also result in the termination of child support, even if the child has not yet turned 19.
How Do I Terminate Child Support in New Jersey?
Terminating child support in New Jersey involves a legal process that must be navigated carefully. Parents cannot simply stop payments on their own accord without facing potential legal consequences.
To terminate child support, you must file a motion with the court providing the reasons for termination and evidence to support your claim. This could be proof that the child is now self-supporting, is married, or has joined the military. You may also need to provide proof that the child is no longer in school or has passed the age of 19 (or 23 in certain circumstances).
As the laws surrounding child support termination are complex, it is highly recommended to consult with an experienced New Jersey family law attorney. This ensures that all necessary legal procedures are followed correctly and helps avoid potential complications down the line.
Call John B. D’Alessandro for Help Navigating Child Support in NJ
While New Jersey law generally stipulates that child support obligations end at 19, exceptions to this rule exist. Successfully navigating these exceptions and the process of child support termination requires an understanding of the law that can be complicated for those not versed in New Jersey family law.
At the Law Offices of John B. D’Alessandro, we are committed to helping parents understand their rights and obligations when it comes to child support termination. If you’re seeking experienced legal counsel in this area, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today by calling 908-964-0102 or contacting us online.