New Jersey Child Custody Attorney

Lawyers Experienced in Child Custody & Support Settlements

Some of the most difficult and emotional parts of divorce are settling the child custody and support arrangements. With a skilled attorney, however, you can rest assured that you have experienced help on your side to stand up for what’s best for your children.

Call our Somerset County child custody lawyers at (908) 259-6673. We serve clients throughout Central New Jersey, including Somerset County, Morris County, Union County, Middlesex County, and Essex County.

How is Child Custody Determined in NJ?

Custody judgments include that of physical custody, or which parent the child will live with, and legal custody, which is the right to make decisions for the child.

Custody arrangements vary, but tend to be close to one of the following scenarios:

• One parent has primary physical custody while the other parent has visitation rights, and parents share legal custody to varying degrees
• Both parents equally share physical and legal custody. This is called joint custody and is the preferred method of custody by the New Jersey court.
• One parent has sole physical and legal custody, and the other parent may or may not have rights to see the child on certain occasions

Sole physical and legal custody is not likely to be awarded to one parent unless the other parent is deemed unfit.

How is Child Support Calculated in New Jersey?

New Jersey law utilizes a shared income model when determining support. This means that both parents should be financially responsible for their children. If possible, the court will examine the incomes of both parents and then make a decision based on what is deemed fair and appropriate. Expenses that the non-custodial parent will be responsible for include healthcare, transportation, clothing, food, and housing. Predictable recurring expenses like work-related child care, health insurance, additional un-reimbursed health care, visitation transportation, and other special needs can be added to the child support calculations upon court approval.

What Constitutes an Unfit Parent in NJ?

When it comes to ruling for custody, a court may disqualify an individual if they are ruled "unfit". Being an unfit parent or guardian essentially means that they are unable to provide a safe and secure home for the child. Putting a child at risk of harm is not something the courts are willing to ignore. Some of the grounds for finding a parent to be unfit include:

• A mental health issue that is inhibiting them from carrying out their role as parent or guardian
• A history of dangerous actions including domestic violence
• Substance or alcohol abuse
• Previous child neglect or endagerment

Best Interests of The Child

The court’s custody and child support decisions are based on the best interests of the child. However, “best interests” is itself based on many different factors. An experienced attorney can help you identify the arguments that demonstrate how much support your child needs, or why you are the most fitting guardian for your child. They can also present them effectively in court, giving you and your child the best chance of a peaceful home life after a divorce.

Lane & Lane, LLC has the experienced Somerset County child custody attorneys you want by your side in family court. If you choose us to represent you, one of our partner attorneys will be with you from the start to the end of your case, giving you the legal insight, support, and reassurance you need.

Contact Lane & Lane, LLC and find the help you need in family court.