Can I stop child support and leave my child after remarriage?

Full question:

I am single parent and my son is 12 years old. My wife died 11 years ago. At present, I am dating a girl who seems be a nice girl, but she doesn’t want me to keep my son with us after marriage. Can I stop child support and leave my child after my second marriage?

  • Category: Minors
  • Subcategory: Child Support
  • Date:
  • State: Massachusetts

Answer:

No, you cannot stop child support after your second marriage, nor can you leave your child without making proper arrangements for their care and support. You are legally required to support your child and provide for their needs until they turn eighteen.

If you abandon your child without ensuring their care, you could face serious legal consequences, including felony charges. According to ALM GL ch. 273, § 1, a parent is guilty of a felony if they abandon their minor child without making reasonable provisions for their support. This includes failing to comply with a support order while having the financial ability to do so. Violating these laws can result in imprisonment for up to five years, or a fine of up to five thousand dollars, or both (ALM GL ch. 273, § 15A).

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

The average time for a widow to remarry varies widely based on individual circumstances, but studies suggest it can range from 3 to 5 years after the spouse's death. Factors such as emotional readiness, support systems, and personal circumstances play significant roles in this timeline.