Helping Parents Understand & Resolve Child Support in NJ

Child support isn’t just about numbers—it’s about providing stability for your children and clarity for both parents. As experienced New Jersey child support lawyers, we help families across Bergen County, including Hackensack, Englewood, and Teaneck, navigate the process of establishing, modifying, and enforcing support orders.


Whether you’re trying to calculate the right amount, respond to a court motion, or resolve nonpayment issues, we’ll walk you through the legal process and advocate for your child’s best interests every step of the way.

How Child Support Is Calculated in New Jersey

New Jersey uses a formula-based system called the NJ Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines consider several factors, including:

  • Both parents’ incomes
  • Number of children
  • Custody and parenting time (learn how schedules affect support on our Custody page)
  • Cost of health insurance and childcare
  • Whether either parent has other support obligations

While the state provides a framework, it’s still essential to have a knowledgeable attorney review the numbers. We make sure the calculation is accurate—and fair to you and your family.


For more information, you can view the official NJ child support calculator.

When the Guidelines Don’t Tell the Whole Story

In most cases, the court follows the guideline calculation—but not always. If your case involves unusual circumstances, such as:

  • High parental incomes
  • A child with medical or educational needs
  • Significant travel or shared expenses

…the court may deviate from the guidelines. We’ve successfully represented both parents seeking and opposing these deviations. Our goal is to ensure your child’s needs are covered without creating financial hardship.

Establishing a Support Order

Support can be established in two ways:

  • By Agreement: Parents may negotiate support terms and include them in a Property Settlement Agreement during divorce.


  • By Court Order: If no agreement is reached, the court will decide based on the Child Support Guidelines and other evidence.

Some clients also receive temporary child support while a divorce is pending. Once finalized, the support order becomes part of the divorce judgment.

Changing a Support Order When Life Changes

Support orders are based on your current circumstances—but life doesn’t stand still. If you’ve experienced:

  • Job loss or a change in income
  • A change in parenting time or custody
  • New expenses related to your child’s health or education

…you may be eligible to modify child support in Bergen County. We help clients file motions to adjust their obligations—and protect themselves if the other parent files for a change. [Read more about post-divorce modifications.]

What to Do If Child Support Isn’t Being Paid

When support isn’t paid on time—or at all—it affects not just your finances but your child’s wellbeing. If you're wondering what happens if my ex doesn’t pay child support in NJ, know that you have options.

We can file a motion to enforce the child support order, and the court may:

  • Garnish wages
  • Seize tax refunds
  • Suspend driver’s licenses
  • Hold the non-paying parent in contempt

Support Built on Experience, Strategy & Care

At our firm, we know how emotional and confusing support issues can be. Whether you're receiving or paying, the outcome has a major impact on your daily life. As trusted child support attorneys in Bergen County, we:

  • Ensure the guideline calculation is accurate and complete
  • Present special circumstances when necessary
  • Advise on strategy for agreements or litigation
  • File and respond to support modifications and enforcement
  • Represent clients in family court, including Hackensack

Our team combines thorough preparation with a grounded, compassionate approach—because financial matters are deeply personal, especially when children are involved.

Common Questions About Child Support in NJ

  • How is child support calculated in New Jersey?

    The court uses a formula based on both parents’ incomes, custody time, and expenses. However, factors like special needs or travel costs can affect the final amount.

  • Can I change my child support order if my income drops?

    Yes. If there's been a significant change in your financial situation, we can file a motion to modify the support amount.

  • What happens if my ex doesn’t pay child support in NJ?

    You can go to court to enforce the order. The judge may garnish their wages, take tax refunds, or impose penalties.

  • Do I still have to pay support if I don’t see my child?

    Yes. Child support is a legal obligation that’s separate from parenting time. If there are custody or visitation issues, we can help address those as well.

  • Can we agree on an amount outside the guidelines?

    Yes, but the court will still review the agreement to ensure it's fair and meets the child’s needs.

Talk to a New Jersey Child Support Attorney Today

If you’re dealing with child support concerns—whether it’s setting a new order, modifying an old one, or responding to a motion—contact us for guidance. We’re ready to help families throughout Bergen County and surrounding areas find clarity and resolution.