Child support

North Carolina Divorce Law Divorce and Separation Answers
1

Dear mjk:

Greetings. Yes, child support should automatically terminate when a child reaches age 18 and graduates from high school. No, legal action cannot be taken against the paying parent if they stop child support the month after the child has graduated from high school. Best of luck.

Janet L. Fritts
Attorney with Rosen Divorce
4101 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 500
Raleigh, North Carolina 27607
RosenDivorce.com
919-787-6668

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.

2

Does child support terminate automatically for a child once they turn 18 and have graduated from high school? Or does the supporting party have to appear in court and ask for modification? In this case there is not an agreement for support beyond high school and the child does not have any physical or mental handicaps. If the supporting parent does not pay the support the month after the child turns 18, can legal action be taken against the parent for terminating child support of their own accord?