Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia
Court Ordered College Expenses
In March, 2005, I signed a divorce decree with my ex-husband. In the child support section, there is a clause that I will pay for one-half of my children's (two girls) college expenses. My oldest girl is planning to start college in the fall of 2007. However, she has ended all relationships with me and I have not seen or spoken to her since March, 2006. She has essentially ''divorced'' me, or at least cut me out of her life, although I have made numerous attempts to re-establish the relationshp. I also hear through third parties that she is planning on attending college out-of-state. The clause in the decree has no limit on expenses. Furthermore, I have sent her and her father numerous literature regarding grants and scholarships available, but have been ignored.
Can this be changed (preferably eliminated, or at least limited)? If so, what are the chances of successfully doing so?
Her father has full custody due to mental illness I was suffering at the time and makes double my disability pay.
If my daughter were willing to have a relationship with me, attend college in-state, and utilize all grants and scholarships (such as HOPE sholarship), I would be willing to pay half of her remaining expenses.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Court Ordered College Expenses
We would need to see the exact wording of the order. Generally, the order is final and the only way to modify is if there is a material change of circumstances that would affect the welfare of the child.