Above The Guidelines Child Support
When it comes to calculating the amount of child support, the New Jersey child support guidelines generally apply, but not always. If the parents have combined annual income of $187,200 or more, the court can depart from the guidelines. It will take a more subjective approach, but one tempered by reality and reason.
At LaRocca Hornik Rosen Greenberg & Crupi, LLC, in Freehold, New Jersey, we regularly represent high-income clients in child support matters. As trial advocates, we have the argumentation skills that can make a difference in “above-the-guidelines” child support matters. When our firm represents you, we will work to achieve a fair child support payment that provides for the needs of your child.
Parents are expected to provide for a child’s needs at least until the age of 18, and sometimes beyond. That means that a slight miscalculation in the monthly child support amount can add up to tens of thousands of dollars until the child is emancipated.” — Frank LaRocca
Expenses That Can Be Included In Above-The-Guidelines Child Support
The court’s overriding goal when calculating the child support amount is to first make sure that the child’s basic needs are met. It will examine two separate budgets — one for the custodial parent’s expenses and one that enables the child to benefit from the high incomes of the parents.
The second budget could include these expenses, for example:
- Private school tuition
- Tutoring
- Lessons for dance, art or sports activities
- Summer camp
- Foreign travel
- Weekly allowance
- Car expenses for a teenage child
However, according to New Jersey case law, parents of all income levels can be held responsible for college expenses, even for an elite school.
Obtaining The Right Level Of Child Support
As a parent, you want to give your child advantages that can make a positive difference in his or her life. At the same time, overindulging a child can produce negative emotional and behavioral effects. An attorney at our firm can review your situation and help you make wise decisions concerning these and other family law matters.
Contact A Lawyer
Our lawyers are highly knowledgeable concerning New Jersey law covering both basic and above-the-guidelines child support.
Contact us online or call 732-246-2112 to schedule a consultation. We represent parents throughout central New Jersey, including Monmouth County, Ocean County and Middlesex County.