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Am I still responsible for child support after my son turned 18?

Am I still responsible for child support after my son turned 18?

Full question:

My son turned 18 today. He lives with his father in the state of Mississippi. My son dropped out of high school to home school but that didn't last so he has obtained a GED and is also gainfully employed by his father in the insurance business. He is also to take his test to obtain an insurance license on May 18th to sell insurance for his father. He plans to attend a junior college in august but hasn't registered. My question is...am I responsible for any further child support payments to my ex-husband? Sincerely, Teresa Robertson

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

Answer:

The responsibility for child support payments depends on the laws in Mississippi. According to Mississippi law, child support obligations typically end when a child is emancipated. Emancipation can occur when a child turns eighteen, marries, or becomes financially independent, among other criteria.

In your case, your son has turned eighteen, obtained a GED, and is employed. He is also preparing to take a licensing exam and plans to attend junior college in August. Since he is now considered an adult and is financially independent, your obligation for child support likely terminates unless there are specific provisions in your child support order that extend support for educational purposes.

It's important to consult the specific child support order issued by the court, as it may contain details regarding any obligations that continue after your son turns eighteen. If you have questions about your situation or the specifics of your order, consider seeking legal advice.

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

What is the homeschool law in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, homeschooling is legal and regulated by the state. Parents must file a notice of intent to homeschool with the local school district. They must also provide an educational program that includes basic subjects like English, math, science, and social studies. Additionally, parents must keep attendance records and may need to submit periodic assessments to ensure educational progress. For more specific guidance, it’s advisable to consult the Mississippi Department of Education or local education authorities.

How does a homeschooled child get a diploma?

In Mississippi, homeschooled students do not receive a traditional high school diploma from a school. Instead, parents can issue a diploma once the student has completed their educational program. This diploma should include the student's name, date of graduation, and the parent’s signature. Some families may also choose to use a homeschool umbrella program, which might provide additional documentation and support for graduation.

What age does child support stop in the state of Mississippi?

In Mississippi, child support typically ends when a child turns eighteen, unless they are still enrolled in high school. If the child is emancipated before turning eighteen, such as through marriage or financial independence, support may also terminate earlier. It's essential to review the specific child support order for any provisions regarding support continuation for educational purposes.

How to get a homeschool diploma in Mississippi?

To obtain a homeschool diploma in Mississippi, parents must create a diploma for their child once they have completed their educational requirements. This diploma should include the student's name, graduation date, and the parent's signature. Some parents may also choose to enroll their child in a homeschool umbrella program, which can assist with the diploma issuance and provide additional resources.

Do homeschool kids get a diploma or GED?

Homeschooled students in Mississippi typically receive a diploma issued by their parents upon completing their education. Alternatively, they can also pursue a General Educational Development (GED) certificate, which is an equivalent credential. The choice between a diploma and a GED depends on the student’s educational path and goals.