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Can I terminate child support after my son’s emancipation in Ohio?

Can I terminate child support after my son’s emancipation in Ohio?

Full question:

I am divorced and I have been providing child support to my 17-year-old son. He recently got legally emancipated. Can I now terminate the child support under the Ohio State law?

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Child Support
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Ohio

Answer:

In Ohio, you can terminate child support if your child is legally emancipated. According to ORC Ann. 3119.88, child support may end for several reasons, including:

(A) The child reaches the age of majority (18) and is not attending high school full-time.
(B) The child stops attending high school full-time after turning 18, if the support order specifies that support continues only while in school.
(C) The child's death.
(D) The child's marriage.
(E) The child's emancipation.
(F) The child's enlistment in the armed services.
(G) The child's deportation.
(H) A change in legal custody of the child.

The age of majority in Ohio is 18, as stated in ORC Ann. 3109.01, which indicates that individuals 18 and older are legally capable of contracting and are considered of full age for all purposes.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

How to terminate child support in Ohio?

To terminate child support in Ohio, you must file a motion with the court that issued the original support order. This motion should state the reasons for termination, such as the child's emancipation or reaching the age of majority. You may need to provide evidence supporting your request. Once filed, a hearing may be scheduled where you can present your case. It's advisable to consult with a family law attorney to ensure the process is completed correctly and legally. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

Can you cancel a child support order in Ohio?

Yes, you can cancel a child support order in Ohio if certain conditions are met, such as the child being emancipated or reaching the age of 18. To do this, you must file a motion with the court that issued the order, explaining the reasons for cancellation. The court will review your request and may hold a hearing to confirm the changes. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure that you follow the correct legal procedures. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

How do I stop the child support process?

To stop the child support process in Ohio, you need to file a motion to terminate the child support order with the court. This motion should outline your reasons for stopping the support, such as the child's emancipation or reaching the age of majority. After filing, a hearing may be scheduled where you can present your case. It's important to follow legal procedures correctly, so consider seeking assistance from a family law attorney. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

How do I file a motion to terminate child support in Ohio?

To file a motion to terminate child support in Ohio, you must complete the appropriate court forms and submit them to the court that issued the original support order. Your motion should clearly state the reasons for termination, such as the child's emancipation. After filing, the court may schedule a hearing where you can present your case. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure you complete the process correctly and meet all legal requirements. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What are valid reasons to get emancipated?

Valid reasons for seeking emancipation in Ohio include the desire for independence, entering the military, getting married, or being financially self-sufficient. Emancipation allows minors to make legal decisions without parental consent. However, the court will consider the minor's maturity and ability to handle adult responsibilities before granting emancipation. It's essential to present a compelling case to the court, often with legal assistance. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

Can not paying child support affect custody?

Yes, not paying child support can affect custody arrangements in Ohio. Courts may view failure to pay support as a lack of responsibility, which could influence custody decisions. If a parent is consistently delinquent in payments, it may impact their standing in custody hearings. It's crucial to maintain compliance with child support orders to avoid potential negative consequences regarding custody. Consulting with a family law attorney can provide guidance on this matter. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*