Legal Question in Family Law in Virginia

Child Support for someone over 18 and dropping out of high school

I live in Virginia, and my daughter is 18 years of age. I understand the law states that I owe child support until she turns 19 if she is still in high school. She has decided with her mother's approval to drop out of high school and work full time...do I still owe child support and for how long?


Asked on 6/08/06, 10:17 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Child Support for someone over 18 and dropping out of high school

Once she drops out of school you can petition the court to have your support order vacated.

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Answered on 6/08/06, 10:21 am
James Wilson James H. Wilson, Jr., Attorney & Counsellor at Law

Re: Child Support for someone over 18 and dropping out of high school

You should consult with a Virginia attorney to discuss the applicability of the law to the facts of your situation. The following is general legal information on the duration of child support in Virginia.

Section 124.2 of Title 20 of the Code of Virginia provides as follows:

"...The court shall also order that support will continue to be paid for any child over the age of 18 who is (i) a full-time high school student, (ii) not self-supporting, and (iii) living in the home of the party seeking or receiving child support until such child reaches the age of 19 or graduates from high school, whichever first occurs. The court may also order the continuation of support for any child over the age of 18 who is (i) severely and permanently mentally or physically disabled, (ii) unable to live independently and support himself, and (iii) resides in the home of the parent seeking or receiving child support. In addition, the court may confirm a stipulation or agreement of the parties which extends a support obligation beyond when it would otherwise terminate as provided by law..."

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Answered on 6/08/06, 11:34 am


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