Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

Re: Domestic relations

The custodial agreement usually sets this out specifically. In most circumstances the obligation for child support terminates at age 18 or when the child is "no longer in need of support." This is usually defined as when the child leaves school. Leaving school doesn't mean high school, but any school. If the child chooses to go to college or trade school the non-custodial parental obligation continues.

And here's the kicker, the non-custodial parent is expected to contribute 50% of the costs for the child's education on top of child support. Even if this is not specified in a custody or support agreement. In some circumstances the obligation can even run to post-graduate school.

Most importantly, the obligation of the non-custodial parent to pick up 50% of ongoing costs exceeds is figured before ANY loans, grants, scholarships other assistance is deducted. And this obligation accumulates until the child leaves school. So if the child didn't ask for college help until he was a senior, then he would still be able to request all amounts allowed.

Not the answer you were looking for, but the right one for the benefit of the child.

Please feel free to arrange an appointment to more fully discuss this matter or other legal matter.

Roger Traversa

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