I need temporary support while a divorce is pending

More family matters situations

• We want mediation instead of a fight Mediation can help with some disputes, but a mediator is neutral and does not represent either person.
• I need a copy of an old family order Obtain the order from the court that issued it; a screenshot or recollection may omit important terms.
• I need financial support for my child A support application generally requires legal parentage, information about the child, and financial information. A support order and a parenting schedule address…
• I lost my job and cannot afford the support order An income change does not automatically reduce an existing order. Promptly ask about a modification.
• I cannot afford a lawyer or court filing fees Fee waivers and legal assistance may be available, but they are separate applications and eligibility is not guaranteed.
• My child turned 18; can I stop paying support? There is no single support-ending age for NJ, NY, and DC. The order, local law, disability, education, and other circumstances matter.
• The support agency says I owe more than my records show Request an itemized accounting and compare it with the order and your evidence.
• The other parent is not paying ordered support Use the support-enforcement process; do not try to collect by withholding parenting time.

All family matters articles · Browse all Know Your Rights topics