Q: I would like to know where to find specific family law statutes that detail the formula used for family support, alimony

A: There is no formula for spousal support. The statute asks family court judges to consider several factors, such as: the length of the marriage, the need of the dependent spouse, etc., to determine an amount of spousal support that is fit, reasonable, and just.

Child support is based on a formula (the New Jersey child support guidelines) for children who are under the age of 18. To sort out the amount of child support to which she may be entitled, however, will require her to know how many overnights the children are spending with each parent, the incomes of both parents (or imputed income for a party who is not working), as well as other pieces of information.

Your daughter really needs to seek a consultation with a qualified attorney who dedicates his/her practice to family law. They can listen to all of her facts and circumstances, try to ball park what they preliminarily believe the outcome of the case will be, and help her understand the process and plan ahead.

A: This is not a do-it-yourself project. To properly answer your questions and address your concerns, the best way to handle this is by retaining an experienced matrimonial attorney. You need the best attorney you can afford, do not let geographic considerations be a factor in your choice of an attorney. Pick the best lawyer you can find and remember one rule: a good lawyer is generally never cheap, and a cheap lawyer is generally never good so don't choose based on price.