Child support is a financial obligation placed on a parent to help provide for the basic needs of their child. In California, child support is typically ordered to continue until a child reaches the age of 18 or graduates’ high school, whichever comes later. But what happens if your child wants to pursue higher education? Does your responsibility to pay child support extend to college costs? In this guide, our Harris Family Law Group team will explore the legal dynamics surrounding this issue and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your responsibilities.
In California, parents are legally required to provide financial support for their children until they reach the age of majority, which is generally 18. This obligation is known as child support, and it is designed to ensure that the child’s basic needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, and medical care, are met.
The money you pay in child support is typically determined by the court, taking into account various factors like the income of both parents, how long each parent stays with the child and the child’s specific needs.
While the general rule is that child support obligations end when the child reaches the age of majority, there are certain circumstances in which a parent may be required to continue providing financial support beyond that age.
When determining whether to order continued child support for a child attending college or vocational training, the court will consider the following factors:
It is important to note that the court’s decision to order continued child support for a child attending college or vocational training is not automatic and is determined on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific circumstances of each family.
If the court orders continued child support for a child attending college or vocational training, the amount and duration of the support will be determined based on the child’s educational expenses, the parents’ financial resources, and other relevant factors.
In California, while parents are not automatically obligated to continue paying child support once their child reaches the age of majority and begins attending college or vocational training, the court has the discretion to order continued support in certain circumstances. The decision is based on various factors, such as the parent’s financial ability and the relationship between the parents and the child.
If you are facing a situation where you are unsure about your legal obligations or rights regarding child support for a child attending college or vocational training, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a qualified family law attorney. At the Harris Family Law Group, we are dedicated to providing you with the guidance and representation you need to deal with this complex case.
