A child’s 18th birthday is generally a significant milestone in their lives. A lot of things can change for them and their parents too. When a child turns 18, a noncustodial parent’s legal obligation to pay child support will typically end. However, there are exceptions to every rule including this one. For more information and representation during child support negotiations work with an experienced Memphis, Tennessee child support lawyer.
Does Child Support End at 18 in TN?
While most people across the United States assume that a parent’s obligation to pay child support ends when the child turns 18, that is not the case in every state. In general, the age for child support termination varies from 18 to 21 depending on the state you live in.
In Tennessee, however, a parent no longer has to pay child support once their child turns 18 years old. That is the age when a child is considered a legal adult and expected to financially support themselves. Although both parents can continue to help after they turn 18, the paying parent’s requirement to continue child support payments to the custodial parent will end.
Can Child Support End Earlier than 18?
In Tennessee, minor children can be considered emancipated earlier than 18 under a few circumstances. If they enlist in the armed forces or get legally married they will immediately be deemed emancipated. However, they can also petition a court for emancipation if they can live independently and prove that they can financially support themselves. There is no minimum age for emancipation, and children may request to be severed from their parents for various reasons including abuse, abandonment, the desire to enter into a contract, etc.
The laws surrounding early emancipation can be tricky so it is important to consult with an experienced attorney to ensure you understand the law and how it applies to your situation.
Can Child Support Be Extended Past Age 18?
A parent’s child support obligation may be extended past the child’s 18th birthday, but Tennessee law only has a few instances where this rule would apply. For example, if the child turns 18 but they are still enrolled in high school, both parents may be required to continue supporting them until they graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first.
Additionally, if the child is mentally or physically disabled child support could continue until they turn 21. In severe cases where their disability prevents them from living independently or becoming self-sufficient, child support may continue even past age 21. A court will decide based on the specific situation and the child’s needs.
Finally, if both parents agree to continue child support for various reasons they can sign a document agreeing to the terms. They may include an amount of money or an age where the child support obligation will end that suits their and their child’s needs.
Whether you pay or receive child support, it is important that you understand your parental rights and obligations. For additional information and legal representation during any legal proceedings, reach out to an attorney at Rice Law.
