What Are Extraordinary Expenses in New Jersey Child Support?
New Jersey law has long held that parents are required to provide financial support on behalf of their unemancipated children. The New Jersey Court Rules outline the basic expenses that are generally covered by a child support award on behalf of unemancipated children. However, there may be extraordinary expenses incurred in behalf of children that warrant an additional financial contribution by their parents. Our experienced Marlton child support attorneys at Weinberg, Kaplan, & Smith, P.A., have the legal skill and insight to provide guidance regarding such extraordinary expenses.
When Extraordinary Expenses Apply
The basic child support award does not always cover all expenses on behalf of unemancipated children and may require additional consideration. The court has the discretion to address these additional expenses and can adjust a child support award for the benefit of unemancipated children.
When the Court Will Deviate from Standard Child Support
If you and your spouse are unable to reach an agreement your respective obligations toward your children’s support, you may turn to the court to make a decision in this regard. If you are seeking a contribution that exceeds the basic child support award, it will be your burden to present proof of the extraordinary expenses that you seek contribution toward. The court will then make a finding regarding what extraordinary expenses should or should not be shared for the benefit of the unemancipated children.
Common Categories of Extraordinary Expenses
Extraordinary expenses can vary based upon the circumstances of each family, but they often fall into categories such as the following:
- Work-related childcare, not included in the base child support calculations
- The marginal cost of adding the children to health insurance benefits
- Out-of-pocket expenses for medical, dental, optometry, medications, and counseling in excess of $250.00 per child per year
- The cost of the children’s education, as defined by their needs and abilities
- Any special physical, mental, or educational needs that any of the children have
- The costs associated with any of the children’s special abilities, such as in relation to sports, music, or the arts
- Special events, including cultural milestones
When Extraordinary Expenses Are Included
Any extraordinary expenses may be included in the Child Support Guidelines or shared between you and your spouse in proportion to your incomes, for example.
Discuss Your Case with One of Our Experienced Marlton Child Support Lawyers
At Weinberg, Kaplan, & Smith, P.A., our dedicated Marlton, NJ, child support attorneys appreciate how important the matter of extraordinary expenses can be to your case, and we are committed to taking the strategic steps necessary to safeguard your rights. Learn more about everything we can do to help by contacting us online or giving our firm a call at 856-795-9400 today.