child support termination

[mrjwalkr]

What is the name of your state? ALABAMA
I have been paying child support for the past 10-12 yrs. My son has just turned 18 and graduated from high school. My legal papers do not state any specific termination timeframe. As I understand it, I am reponsible up to his 18th birthday which has passed. Can someone clue me in on the general rule of thumb if it is not previously specified?

[HomeGuru]

What is the name of your state? ALABAMA
I have been paying child support for the past 10-12 yrs. My son has just turned 18 and graduated from high school. My legal papers do not state any specific termination timeframe. As I understand it, I am reponsible up to his 18th birthday which has passeed. Can someone clue me in on the general rule of thumb if it is not previously specified?

**A: is your son going to continue school like a trade school or attend a college or university? And would he need further support from you even after age 18, perhaps to age 21 or even after?

[stepmomndad]

ALABAMA: Both parents have an equal right to the custody of their children. Under Alabama law, a court may consider an award of joint custody, whereby the parental rights of both parties remain intact, with one parent as the primary custodian of the children and the other as the secondary custodian. Under this arrangement, both parents remain involved in the decision making responsibilities regarding the children, with each parent having "tie breaking" authority regarding certain issues, such as education, health and dental care, religion, civic and cultural activities, and athletic involvement. Child support is determined under the Alabama Child Support Guidelines, unless the Court finds grounds to deviate from the guidelines. In Alabama, the Department of Human Resources is responsible for enforcing child support obligations. The court retains JURISDICTION to modify child support, up or down, until the children reach the age of 19.

[mrjwalkr]

I believe he is attempting to go to college. I am setting up a bank account in his name to support an allowance (sort of speak) until he establishes his game plan.

[CJane]

I did 5 minute google search and everything I found indicates that Alabama requires child support to the age of 19 unless otherwise stipulated in the order.

So, when the child turns 19 you should file a motion for cessation of child support. Do NOT stop paying without an order from the court which allows you to.

[mrjwalkr]

If the courts are to modify anything or keep me involved further, I should be contacted or served or something?

[mrjwalkr]

good information CJane...I'll keep that in mind. Thanks