Child support helps cover a child’s basic needs. This includes food, housing, clothing, health care and education. In New Jersey, both parents have a legal duty to support their child financially. Once a child support order is in place, it can be modified if circumstances change meaningfully.
The family courts recognize that life is unpredictable. If a parent’s financial situation changes or the child’s needs increase, support can be reviewed and possibly adjusted. Here are some important points to keep in mind.
When can you request a modification?
A parent can ask the court to change a support order if there has been a major, lasting and unexpected change in circumstances. This might include losing a job, gaining a higher income, changes in parenting time or increased medical or school expenses. In some cases, remarriage or the birth of a new child may also qualify.
The court will examine whether the change is serious enough to affect the fairness of the current order.
The process of child support modifications
Requesting a modification means filing a motion with the same New Jersey family court that issued the original order. You must give updated financial documents and a written explanation of the changes. You must also serve the other parent with the paperwork and pay a filing fee. Forms can be submitted online or in person.
Child support does not adjust on its own. A formal court order is required, even if both parents agree to a new amount.
Modifying child support is possible, but only in certain circumstances. If you are dealing with a modification request, it can help to seek legal guidance.
