Best Child Support Lawyers in Atlantic City

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Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law

Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law

Atlantic City, United States

Founded in 1957
75 people in their team
Hundreds of Years of Combined Legal ExperienceThe law firm of Cooper Levenson, P.A., established in 1957, is a full-service law firm with 75...
English

About Child Support Law in Atlantic City, United States

In Atlantic City, United States, Child Support law is overseen by the New Jersey Department of Human Services Division (DHS) of Child Support Services. Child support is designed to ensure that children receive financial support from both parents. In essence, the noncustodial parent is obliged to contribute an amount towards the cost of raising their child. These laws also consider the income of both parents, the child's needs, and the custody arrangement.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer to help with a range of issues, from establishing paternity, setting up a child support order, or modifying an existing child support order should circumstances change. Also, if a parent is failing to meet their child support obligations, legal help can be sought for enforcement. You might also need a lawyer to help with child support cases related to divorce, custody, visitation rights, and other issues concerning children's welfare.

Local Laws Overview

In Atlantic City, child support orders are generally determined by the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines consider both parents' income, the number of children, and the amount of time the child spends with each parent. The court may deviate from these guidelines based on factors such as the child's special needs, the parent's ability to pay, and other relevant circumstances. Child support obligations typically continue until the child turns 19, but they may be extended under certain conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a parent fails to pay court-ordered child support?

If a parent doesn't comply with court-ordered child support, they may face penalties such as wage garnishment, seizure of tax refunds, suspension of professional or driver's licenses, or even incarceration.

Can a child support order be modified?

Yes, in Atlantic City, a child support order can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. This can include changes to a parent's income, changes in the child's needs, changes in custody arrangements, and others.

Does the custodial parent have to show how the child support money is spent?

No, the custodial parent is not required by law to account for how child support funds are spent. The funds are meant to contribute to the child's general well-being, which can include housing, clothing, food, education, medical care, and other daily living expenses.

What if the noncustodial parent refuses to work to avoid paying child support?

If a parent is found to be voluntarily unemployed or underemployed to avoid paying child support, the court may calculate child support based on the parent's potential income.

Can child support be collected if the noncustodial parent lives out of state?

Yes, child support can be enforced even if the noncustodial parent lives in a different state, thanks to interstate cooperation agreements and federal laws.

Additional Resources

The New Jersey Department of Human Services Division of Child Support Services is a valuable resource that provides information and assistance related to child support. It offers various services such as locating absent parents, establishing paternity, modifying child support orders, and enforcing child support orders.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with child support issues in Atlantic City, you should get in touch with a lawyer specialized in family law. They can help you understand the laws, inform you of your rights and obligations, assist in negotiating agreements, and represent you in court if necessary. Don't hesitate to seek professional legal advice on matters pertaining to child support, as it can significantly impact your life and the life of your child.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.