Child support is an essential aspect of parenting, especially for separated or divorced couples.
It is a legal obligation that ensures the financial needs of the children are met, and it is typically paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent.
However, child support does not last forever, and there comes a time when it ends.
Legal Age of Majority
In New Brunswick, the legal age of majority is 19 years old.
This means that child support automatically ends when the child turns 19 years old.
At this age, the child is considered an adult and is responsible for their own financial needs.
Post-Secondary Education
In some cases, child support may continue beyond the age of majority if the child is pursuing post-secondary education.
In these cases, child support may continue until the child completes their education, or until they reach the age of 25, whichever comes first.
However, it is important to note that the child must be enrolled in a full-time program, and the education must be reasonable in light of the child’s abilities and career goals.
Special Needs Children
If a child has a physical or mental disability, child support may continue beyond the age of majority.
In these cases, child support may continue as long as the child remains dependent on their parents due to their disability.
The courts will consider the specific circumstances of each case and determine the appropriate duration of support.
Termination of Child Support
Child support may also be terminated if the child becomes financially independent before reaching the age of majority or completing their education.
For example, if the child gets a job and becomes financially self-sufficient, child support may be terminated.
In some cases, child support may also be terminated if the custodial parent remarries or enters into a common-law relationship.
The courts will consider the new partner’s financial contributions to the household and may adjust the amount of child support accordingly.
Modification of Child Support
It is important to note that child support is not set in stone and may be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances.
For example, if the non-custodial parent loses their job or experiences a significant decrease in income, they may apply to the courts to have their child support payments reduced.
FAQ
Who pays child support in New Brunswick?
In New Brunswick, child support is typically paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent.
The non-custodial parent is the parent who does not have primary care and custody of the child.
The amount of child support is determined by the courts based on the income of both parents, the number of children, and the custody arrangement.
The purpose of child support is to ensure that the financial needs of the child are met, including food, clothing, and shelter.
Can you go to jail for not paying child support in New Brunswick?
In New Brunswick, failure to pay child support can result in legal consequences.
If a non-custodial parent fails to pay child support, the custodial parent can apply to the courts for enforcement. The courts can order the non-custodial parent to pay the outstanding child support, and if they still refuse to pay, they may be held in contempt of court.
In extreme cases, the non-custodial parent may be sentenced to jail time.
However, jail time is not a common consequence and is usually reserved for cases of extreme non-compliance. It is important to seek legal advice if you are having difficulty paying child support to avoid legal consequences.
Child Support in New Brunswick
In New Brunswick, child support ends automatically when the child turns 19 years old.
However, child support may continue beyond this age if the child is pursuing post-secondary education or has special needs. Child support may also be terminated if the child becomes financially independent or if the custodial parent enters into a new relationship.
If there is a significant change in circumstances, child support may be modified through a court application. It is important to seek legal advice if you have any questions or concerns about child support.
