When does child support end for a high school graduate?

Full question:

My son is 17 and getting to graduate from high school in June. Custody papers do not specify when child support ends. Is it when my son graduates or turns 18?

  • Category: Divorce
  • Subcategory: Child Support
  • Date:
  • State: Virginia

Answer:

In Virginia, child support typically continues until your son turns 18. However, support may extend beyond that if he is a full-time high school student, not self-supporting, and living at home. In such cases, support continues until he either graduates from high school or turns 19, whichever comes first. Additionally, support can continue for a child over 18 who is severely disabled and unable to live independently. The court can also agree to extend support obligations if both parties consent.

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

In Virginia, child support generally ends when a child turns 18, but it can continue if the child is still a full-time high school student living at home. Support can last until the child graduates or turns 19, whichever comes first. In some cases, support may continue for disabled children over 18 who cannot live independently.