Child Support to Age 18

The child must be out of high school (up to age 21 I think).When the child is both over 18 and graduates HS the support terminates. Which ever occurs last.

I believe a child “ages out” of child support when they are 18 or finish high school unless there is some special situation involving being in a special school. Of course there may be other financial specifications beyond high school for supporting children like paying for all or part of college that can be put into the agreement.

Child support is paid until the child is either eighteen or out of high school, up to age 20. If the kid is still in school after age 20, then tough luck, no more support.

Dear Margaret890:

Greetings. Yes, the situations apply by default, unless the court order or agreement states otherwise. You would stop paying child support when the child gets out of high school (last payment in June 2006) in the example you stated. Thank you.

Janet L. Fritts
Attorney with Rosen Law Firm

4101 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 500
Raleigh, North Carolina 27607
919.787.6668 main phone
919.256.1665 direct fax

10925 David Taylor Drive, Suite 100
Charlotte, North Carolina 28262
704.644.2831 main voice
704.307.4595 main fax

1829 East Franklin Street, Bldg 600
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
919.321.0780 main phone
919.787.6668 main fax

The response posted above is based upon the limited factual information made available and is not intended as a full and complete response to the question. The only reliable manner to obtain complete and adequate legal advice is to consult with an attorney, fully explain your situation, and allow the attorney sufficient opportunity to research the applicable law and facts required to render an accurate opinion. The basic information provided above is intended as a public service but a full discussion with an attorney should be undertaken before taking any action.

The Rosen Website gives 3 situations where child support does not end at 18. If these situations are not stated in the divorce agreement, would they apply simply by default? For example, child turns 18 Jan. 2006 - - does not finish H.S. until Jun. 2006.