Sharing custody of a child with an ex-spouse can be a complicated situation. A custodial parent is the one who has primary or full custody of their child, and the non-custodial parent might have either partial custody or visitation rights. In most cases where a custodial parent has primary/full custody, the non-custodial parent is required to pay child support to financially provide for their child. However, many divorced parents wonder if their child custody or child support arrangements could be affected by remarriage. No need to worry because our knowledgeable law firm has all the answers you’ll need! To learn more, continue reading this blog or speak with one of our Union County Child Custody Attorneys for high-quality legal advice.
CAN REMARRIAGE AFFECT CHILD SUPPORT?
It depends. Child support is calculated on a case-to-case basis, and arrangements can be modified at a later time. But most of the time, remarriage doesn’t impact child support all that much, no matter which parent is getting remarried. This is because the support amount is mostly dependent on the child’s needs, and only the parents will be required to pay child support. Even if a non-custodial parent marries someone with a much higher income, their new spouse has no obligation towards the child support arrangements. There is an exception, however. If remarriage causes a non-custodial parent’s household funds to vastly increase, then they might be required to provide more child support if it serves the best interests of the child.
HOW IS CHILD SUPPORT CALCULATED IN NEW JERSEY?
Calculating child support is a pretty tricky process, and you’ll likely need a legal professional to determine the exact amount you’ll owe/receive. The main factors that determine child support amounts are each parent’s net annual income, the needs of the child, the number of children, distribution of parenting time, earning potential, and health insurance. Expenses for extracurricular activities and such might also be included in the calculation, which is done using a child support worksheet that is available online.
HOW CAN I MODIFY SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS?
The only way to legally change the amount of child support you owe or receive is by requesting support modifications in family court. You’ll need to prove that the modifications are necessary to serve the child’s best interests. You’ll need court approval to alter your arrangements.
Are you considering modifying your child support arrangements after remarriage? You might want to speak with a dedicated family law attorney who can provide individualized legal counseling. Thankfully, our highly experienced law firm is here to help! Contact Ross & Calandrillo today to schedule an initial consultation.
