When Do Child Support Payments End?
Child support emancipation is a phrase used to describe when a parent is no longer required to pay child support. Many people wrongly assume that, once the child reaches age 18, child support automatically stops. Several factors can come into play that may require a parent to continue paying child support beyond the age of majority.
The requirements surrounding a parent's obligation to pay child support can be quite confusing. It is important to have an experienced lawyer on your side who understands the law and will work to see that your interests and the interests of your children are protected. At Stange Law Firm LLC, we represent clients throughout the Saint Louis area in all types of child support matters.
Understanding Missouri Child Support Obligations
In general, once a child turns 18, the parent's obligation to pay child support ends unless the child is still in school. If the child completes high school and goes onto college or vocational school, the parent's obligation continues until the child turns 21 or completes the educational program, whichever comes first. In addition, if the child is permanently impaired and will never become self-sufficient, the court may extend child support.
Other circumstances that could eliminate the parent's child support obligation include:
- If the child passes away
- If the child gets married
- If the child goes on active duty in the military
- If the child becomes self-sufficient
Contact a St. Louis Child Support Emancipation Attorney
Contact us online or by phone to schedule a free and confidential hour consultation at any of our convenient locations throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area, and Belleville, Illinois.
Saint Louis County Office: 314-219-1865 Click to learn more about this location.
Jefferson County (Arnold) Office: 636-333-0396 Click to learn more about this location.
St. Charles Office: 636-940-5900 Click to learn more about this location.
Belleville Office: 618-505-4643 Click to learn more about this location
Saint Louis City Office: 314-499-8340 Click to learn more about this location.
