Raising a teenager is challenging and comes with a lot of additional expenses. Young drivers often receive quotes for incredibly high insurance rates.
While car insurance and car related expenses for a child are not included in a basic New Jersey child support guidelines calculation, you may be able to seek contribution towards car insurance from your co-parent.
In Fichter v. Fichter, the Court held a judge can in his/her discretion adjust child support to account for the cost of car insurance for a teenage driver. To that end, and because New Jersey is a Court of equity, the Court will look to the financial circumstances of each parent and whether there are reasonable resources available to compel parents to contribute towards a child’s car insurance. It is important to note when making an application to the Court for this relief, your child should be of driving age.
Additionally, when possible, and to avoid having to file an application with the Court when your child is of driving age, it is beneficial to include this request in any initial settlement negotiations regarding child support.
If you would like assistance negotiating child support with your co-parent and/or seeking contribution towards your child’s car insurance in Court, please reach out to our team.
The information contained in this publication should not be construed as legal advice, is not a substitute for legal counsel, and should not be relied on as such. For legal advice or answers to specific questions, please contact one of our attorneys.
Mount Laurel Family Law Mediation Michelle focuses her practice on all aspects of family law including but not limited to family law mediation, divorce, equitable distribution, child support, alimony/spousal support, premarital agreements,...
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