When a child is born both parents take on the responsibility of financially supporting them. Parents are legally required to provide children with at least their basic needs like food, water, shelter, clothing, education, etc. If a couple with shared children gets divorced, the noncustodial parent will be required to pay child support to the custodial parent as a way to continue their financial support. Both paying and receiving parents should understand the laws surrounding child support obligations and the age at which the responsibility expires. In many states, child support payments will end when the child turns 18. However, New Jersey’s law differs slightly. Speak with a Union County child support attorney for more information and representation during your custody and support negotiations.
Does a Parent’s Child Support Obligation End at 18 in NJ?
Unlike many states, a parent’s obligation to pay child support in New Jersey does not automatically end when the child turns 18 years old. Instead, the age of emancipation in NJ is 19. A custodial parent is required to financially support the child and a noncustodial parent is required to continue paying monthly child support until the child’s 19th birthday.
Other Reasons Child Support May End
As established, a parent’s legal obligation to provide their child with financial support ends at 19. However, the responsibility could end earlier depending on certain circumstances that deem the child emancipated.
For example, if an 18-year-old gets married they are considered emancipated. The minimum age for marriage in New Jersey is 18, regardless of parental consent. Once a child who is 18 decides to tie the knot, the parents’ financial obligation to them is over.
Additionally, if the child enlists in the military they are considered emancipated and their parents are no longer required to fund their basic needs or pay child support.
Emancipation by the court will also terminate any child support obligation. A child may request emancipation before 19 if they can financially support themselves. Children may do this because of abuse, neglect, or other reasons.
Can Child Support Be Extended?
While child support can be terminated early, it can also be extended depending on the child’s situation. New Jersey state law allows the obligation for child support to continue up until age 23 if the child:
- Is disabled in any way
- Is still in high school
- Is attending higher education full-time
- If both parents agree
Parents with children who have a severe mental or physical disability and cannot care for themselves may be required to continue financially supporting their child past age 23. The actual age the obligation ends will depend on the specific circumstances of the child.
Although child support obligations generally end at age 19, the law can be nuanced. Reach out to a family lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities as well as represent you during any child support hearings.
