In most states the parents of a minor child may agree to the amount of child support, and courts encourage the parents to do so. But the court will generally review the agreed amount of child support and determine whether it is in the best interest of the child before signing a child support order. And if the parents later agree to change the amount of or need for child support, they should return to court and get a signed order that reflects the agreed or changed amount, as only the court may change the legal obligation under a child support order.
In New Jersey, similar to many states, parents of a minor child are encouraged to come to an agreement on the amount of child support. However, any agreement reached must be reviewed and approved by the court to ensure that it meets the child's best interests. New Jersey uses the 'Income Shares Model' to calculate child support, which considers the income of both parents and the needs of the child. If parents wish to modify the child support agreement, they must petition the court for a modification. The court will then review the circumstances and decide whether to approve the new arrangement. It is important to note that until the court signs a new order, the original child support order remains in effect and legally binding. Therefore, parents should not rely on informal agreements to alter child support obligations without court approval.