Child Support

Understanding the Importance of Child support in New Jersey

Why It Matters

Child support is more than a financial transaction—it’s a legal and moral responsibility that ensures children have access to the resources they need to grow, thrive, and succeed. It can determine the child’s quality of life, their ability to access healthcare, education, proper nutrition, and a safe home environment. At Omojola Law, we believe that both parents must play an active role in a child’s life, not just emotionally but financially as well. Our approach ensures fair and legally sound support arrangements that reflect the needs of the child and the financial realities of both parents.

How Child Support is Calculated in New Jersey

Fair Guidelines with Comprehensive Factors

The State of New Jersey has established detailed Child Support Guidelines to ensure that support obligations are equitable and consistent. These calculations consider:

• Gross income of both parents, including wages, bonuses, rental income, dividends, and disability or unemployment benefits
• Parenting time percentages, especially the number of nights the child spends with each parent annually
• Other existing child support obligations or alimony payments
• Costs for daycare, babysitting, or after-school care
• Out-of-pocket medical expenses not covered by insurance
• Special needs of the child, including learning or physical disabilities

These factors are input into the state-approved worksheet to calculate the fair monthly obligation. However, deviations from the guidelines are possible if both parties agree or the court finds that a different amount better serves the child’s interests.

Earning Potential and Imputed Income

What Happens if One Parent Isn’t Working?

In many cases, a parent may be unemployed or intentionally underemployed to lower their support obligation. New Jersey courts have the authority to impute income to such parents. This means the court may calculate child support based on what the parent should be earning based on their skills, experience, education, and past work history—not necessarily what they currently earn.

For example, if a parent has a degree in nursing but chooses to work part-time in retail, the court may calculate support based on what a full-time nurse would earn. This process ensures that children receive the financial support they deserve, even when one parent attempts to avoid their obligations.

Modifying a Child Support Order

When Life Changes, So Should Support

Child support orders are based on the financial and personal circumstances at the time of the original ruling. However, life changes, and when it does, it may warrant an official modification to the support agreement. Either parent may petition the court to review and modify the existing order.

Common reasons for modifications include:

• A substantial increase or decrease in either parent’s income
• Loss of employment or involuntary demotion
• Significant changes in the child’s educational or medical expenses
• A change in physical custody or parenting time arrangements
• Remarriage or the birth of additional children that impact financial obligations

At Omojola Law, we help you gather the necessary financial documentation, file motions, and present strong arguments to support or defend against modifications in court.

How Omojola Law Can Help With Child Support

Strategic Guidance from Start to Finish

Whether you’re initiating a new child support order, modifying an existing one, or facing enforcement issues, Omojola Law provides experienced legal support. We advocate for fair and lawful solutions that prioritize your child’s well-being. Our legal services include:

• Child support calculation and initial filings
• Petitions for modification or enforcement
• Negotiation and mediation between parents
• Defense against unfounded support claims or income manipulation

Abuse & Neglect

What Makes Abuse and Neglect Cases Unique

Child abuse and neglect cases in New Jersey carry serious legal and emotional weight. These are not just custody or family disputes—they often involve the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP), which operates under the Department of Children and Families. These cases frequently begin with an anonymous report, which prompts an investigation.

Unlike private custody battles, in these cases, the adversary is the State itself. The Attorney General’s Office and DCPP step in as representatives of the child’s best interest, and their findings can have a lasting impact on parental rights, including:

• Loss of temporary or permanent custody
• Restricted visitation or supervised visitation only
• Mandatory completion of substance abuse or parenting programs
• Termination of parental rights and child placement into foster care or adoption proceedings

The DCPP Investigation Process

How Investigations Begin and Proceed

Once a report of suspected abuse or neglect is made, DCPP is legally obligated to investigate. Their process may include:

• Unannounced home visits to assess living conditions
• Interviews with the child, both parents, and other family members or neighbors
• Coordination with medical professionals, educators, and law enforcement
• Drug or alcohol testing, psychological evaluations, or parenting assessments

It’s critical to cooperate without compromising your legal position. That’s why legal counsel should be sought immediately after you are contacted by DCPP.

Court Hearings and Procedures

Understanding the Legal Journey

If DCPP finds enough evidence during the investigation, they may file a complaint in family court. Legal proceedings can include multiple hearings, each with distinct purposes:

• Fact-Finding Hearing: The court determines whether abuse or neglect occurred based on presented evidence.
• Dispositional Hearing: If abuse or neglect is confirmed, the court decides what actions, services, or restrictions are appropriate for the child’s welfare.
• Review Hearings: Periodic reviews assess compliance with court orders and whether reunification or termination of parental rights is appropriate.

These hearings require substantial preparation. Legal representation is not just helpful—it’s essential.

Defending Against False Allegations

What You Need to Prove Your Case

Not every claim of abuse or neglect is substantiated. Unfortunately, false allegations can arise from misunderstandings, malicious intent during custody battles, or misinterpretation by third parties. Our defense strategy includes:

• Independent medical evaluations from licensed pediatricians or psychologists
• Drug and alcohol screening results to counter substance-related claims
• Character witnesses, such as teachers, neighbors, or clergy
• Home inspection reports and digital evidence (texts, emails, messages)

We ensure that every piece of exculpatory evidence is gathered and presented effectively to protect your rights and reputation.

Omojola Law’s Approach to Defense

Experienced, Compassionate, Relentless

At Omojola Law, we don’t just handle cases—we fight for families. Our experienced attorneys craft personalized strategies that address the specific allegations against you. We prioritize:

• Immediate response to DCPP contact or court summons
• Building a fact-based, evidence-driven defense
• Protecting your constitutional rights throughout the process
• Minimizing disruption to your child’s life

Whether the goal is reunification, dismissal of charges, or securing custody rights, our approach is always centered around the best interests of the family.

Why Legal Help is Critical

Delaying Legal Action Can Cost You Your Rights

Once the State is involved, time becomes a critical factor. If you’re unrepresented, you could unknowingly say or do something that severely harms your case. The sooner you have legal counsel, the stronger your defense will be. From emergency hearings to appeals, Omojola Law stands ready to support you at every step.

Contact Omojola Law

Let’s Defend Your Family’s Future

If you or a loved one is facing abuse or neglect allegations, or a child support issue is threatening your peace of mind, don’t wait. Our family law team will treat your case with the urgency, confidentiality, and compassion it deserves. We are fierce defenders of justice and family integrity.

• Experienced in complex DCPP and child support litigation
• Known for winning dismissals and favorable rulings
• Respected advocates who understand New Jersey family law

To learn more about enforcement and payment processing, visit the official New Jersey Child Support Services website or refer to the NJ Courts’ Child Support Information page.

📞 Contact us now to schedule a private consultation and begin building your legal strategy.