How long does child support last in California?

Q: What is the age limit for child support in California?

In California, child support typically lasts until the child turns 18, provided they are not self-supporting and are a full-time high school student. If the child continues their education and is still in high school, support may continue until they graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first (Cal. Fam. Code § 3901).

Q: What is the maximum age to pay child support?

The maximum age for child support in California is 19, but it can extend beyond that if the child is a full-time high school student and not self-supporting. Support obligations end when the child graduates from high school or reaches 19 years of age, whichever occurs first (Cal. Fam. Code § 3901).

Q: Can a 15 year old move out in California?

In California, a 15-year-old cannot legally move out without parental consent. Minors need to be at least 18 years old to move out independently. However, they may seek emancipation, which is a legal process allowing minors to gain adult status, but this requires meeting specific criteria and court approval.

Q: At what age does a father stop paying child support in California?

In California, a father stops paying child support when the child turns 18, provided they are not a full-time high school student. If the child is still in high school and not self-supporting, support can continue until the child graduates or turns 19, whichever comes first (Cal. Fam. Code § 3901).

Full question:

I am a 15 year old living in California with my parents. I would like to know the duration of child support that the parents are required to give to their child in California?

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Support
Date: 04/07/2025
State: California

Answer:

In California, both parents are equally responsible for supporting their minor child. This obligation continues for an unmarried child who is a full-time high school student, not self-supporting, and has reached the age of eighteen. Support lasts until the child either graduates from the 12th grade or turns nineteen, whichever comes first.

According to California Family Code § 3901, the duty of support continues under these conditions. Additionally, parents can agree to provide more support, and the court can check if such an agreement exists.

California Family Code § 3900 states that both parents have an equal responsibility to support their child based on the child's circumstances.

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

Can a 15 year old choose which parent to live with in California?

In California, a 15-year-old can express a preference regarding which parent to live with, but the final decision is up to the court. The court considers the child's wishes along with other factors, such as the child's well-being and the parents' ability to provide a stable environment. Ultimately, the court's priority is the best interest of the child.