As children near adulthood, it is important to understand when a child support commitment is at an end.
The details of divorce include calculations and orders concerning the payment of child support for minor children. Because of the importance placed on financial and other contributions made by both parents, the court retains authority to create and modify child support orders as well as maintain the integrity of Parenting Plans developed by parents or the court.
As children age, the child support order originally created may be modified over time. If a child has special needs, there may be new expenses. Or, as children age, they are generally more expensive to support.
The criteria on which child support orders are based include the number of children in a household, the income and financial status of the parents, the physical custody situation of the family, and other expenses particular to the children and family. All child support orders include provisions that require payment to the custodial parent and provisions as to when the support ends.
In Maryland, many parents believe that child support ceases when a child turns 18 years of age. However, the state requires child support continues to be paid as long as the child remains enrolled in high school. If a child misses grade promotion one year, child support will continue to be enforced until the child graduates from high school, even though they will be over 18 years of age at that time.
As well, the court can require ongoing support by parents for children with special needs who are unable to support themselves as adults. This would include food and housing, clothing, healthcare, and other basic needs.
Another instance in which child support may continue well beyond high school is when collegiate financial support has been written into the divorce agreement and incorporated into the child support order.
Minor children who have married or left high school to work can arguably be considered emancipated, a condition that must be certified by the court which automatically ends child support. The death of a child also immediately terminates the child support obligation.
Throughout the term of a child support order, parents can apply to modify the amount they pay or receive. Questions about child support can arise throughout the years following divorce. If you have concerns about when child support ceases in Maryland, speak with an experienced divorce attorney.
Questions about child support? Contact us today
Whether you are recently divorced or your child is nearing 18, the Law Offices of Allyson B. Goldscher delivers straightforward, accurate information about child support, alimony, and other issues of divorce. When you need an experienced divorce lawyer, we can help. Contact us today or call our offices at 410-602-9522.
