Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

I got married and adopted a son. at 13, we divorced. I have little to no contact. He had an accident at 17 and is permanently handicapped. I was not told he was in hospital. he is now 22 and still no contact. I pay child support and have been told I will have to the rest of my life. Is this the case? It is almost been ten years and I have been rebuffed by his Mother at every turn.

Asked on 11/28/15, 6:24 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Robert Gleaner Robert A. Gleaner, P.C.

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The answer to your main question is that you may be required to pay child support unless and until your son is somewhat sufficient from other financial resources. This may be government disability or other governmental programs or any other resource. The law in the state of New Jersey requires the payment of child support until "emancipation" which loosely means non-dependence on parents. The larger question to me is the reason that you have no relationship with your child. If this was actually caused by your ex, and you can prove it, then you may have a chance at discontinuing your child support obligation. But that is very difficult to prove and would likely have been a better argument many years ago. Your best bet at this point is to seek the advice of an experienced Family Law attorney.

Keep in mind that this advice is based purely on the little bit of information that you have given to me. There certainly may be other factors that would change my opinion. Further, no one can rely on advice from an attorney who has not been retained. You will only be able to rely on advice from an attorney who you have actually retained. Good luck! Rob Gleaner

Answered on 11/28/15, 7:42 am

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