Regardless of the status of your relationship with your children’s other parent, you are legally obligated to financially support your children until they reach the age of emancipation. Child support is a legal obligation that requires non-custodial parents to contribute to the expenses associated with their child’s upbringing. If you’ve been ordered to pay child support in Massachusetts, you are likely wondering when you will be released from this obligation. Please continue reading to learn what age child support ends and how our seasoned Bristol County Child Support Lawyers can assist you during these complicated times.
When Does Child Support End in Massachusetts?
The legal requirements for when a child support obligation ends vary from state to state. Generally, parents must provide financial support until their children reach the age of emancipation. In Massachusetts, child support usually ends when a child turns 18, but it can extend beyond until the child’s 23rd birthday depending on the court’s order. Typically, a child support obligation can be extended under the following circumstances:
- The child is still dependent on the custodial parent
- The child is enrolled in college
- The child has a mental or physical disability
However, it’s important to note that a parent can move to have their Massachusetts child support order ended if the child gets married, enlists in the armed forces, becomes emancipated, graduates from high school, or doesn’t pursue a higher education.
What Should I Do if My Ex Isn’t Making Payments?
If your ex has stopped making payments before your children have reached the age of emancipation, you may be frustrated and unsure of what to do to rectify the situation. The first action you should take is to communicate with them and inform them they have to pay until the child’s 18th birthday unless the child support agreement says otherwise. This conversation should be over text or email.
It’s important to keep detailed records of all child support payments and communication with your ex as it can help you prove your case in court if necessary and ensure that your child receives the support they deserve. If they refuse to fulfill their child support obligation, the court can intervene. Once child support has been ordered it becomes a legally binding obligation. Therefore, you can petition the court to enforce the payments.
For issues regarding child support in Massachusetts, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of a dedicated lawyer from The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C., who can help you understand your rights and options. Connect with our dedicated legal team today to learn how we can assist you.
