Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona

I live in AZ. My question is

A: Does child support automatically end at 18yrs of age for my kids?

B:Am I required to continue to pay child support if my son moves on to college while living in my ex wife's home?


Asked on 1/21/13, 7:36 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Monica Donaldson Stewart Donaldson Stewart, P.C.

Generally speaking, child support terminates when the youngest child is emancipated (age 18 or high school graduation, whichever comes later, but not past age 19). At that point, the obligation to pay support changes, but if there is an automatic wage assignment (garnishment) that doesn't terminate unless you get a court order. If there is more than one child, the support does not automatically get modified as the older ones emancipate - if you are entitled to a reduction in support as a result of the emancipation of an older child (or for any reason), you must file an action with the court.

If your son has turned 18 and has graduated high school, you are not obligated to continue paying child support (regardless of whether he is attending college or living with the other parent). If your court orders specifically state otherwise, I recommend you consult with an attorney to discuss the enforceability of those orders.

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Answered on 1/21/13, 2:08 pm


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