Jersey City Family Law Attorney
Emancipation of Children in New Jersey
Different than many other states, emancipation of a child does not automatically occur at the age of 18. As such, a parent could still be left with a long road of child support payments even after his or her child has reached their 18th birthday. Emancipation and discontinuation of child support is determined based upon a child's age in cooperation with his or her financial independence. Only if a child is over the age of 18 and/or financially independent can they legally become emancipated.
As a decision decided by the court, it would be in your best interest as a parent to have your Jersey City family lawyer by your side. Your legal representation will be able to defend your rights and help strengthen your case of child emancipation. In many cases, the court will not terminate
child support if your child is enrolled in college or any other type of school. Additionally, a court may not grant emancipation until the summer after graduation, giving the child the additional few months to find permanent employment.
Child Emancipation & Support in NJ Divorce Cases
As the parent of a child, you have a legal obligation to pay child support until your child is emancipated by the court. While there is no fixed age for emancipation, it generally is granted at the age of 18. That being said, many courts will request a parent to continue supporting a child through the college years, even if that is an addition 10 years. There are few circumstances that allow for the child support to be terminated, and these include the child's death, marriage, signing up for the armed forces, full-time employment, termination of parental rights and the graduation of high school where the child does not wish to attend college.
Get help with your child emancipation case today! At the Artusa Law Firm, the Jersey City family law attorneys work with parents and children struggling with child support matters all across Northern New Jersey.
Divorce and family law matters can be difficult, but with a divorce lawyer by your side, you and your family could find the relief you need. Call the firm today to schedule your initial consultation.
Contact a Jersey City family law attorney to learn more about emancipation of children and child support in the State of New Jersey. |