Tuscaloosa, AL asked in Family Law for Alabama

Q: My last child with my former husband will graduate next month from high school. She also turns 18 next month/May. Her fa

Her father just sent April's check with a notation "second to last check". Right now child plans to continue to live with me & attend local community college. Can my ex just stop paying next month when she turns 18?

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1 Lawyer Answer
William E. Scully Jr.
William E. Scully Jr.
Answered
  • Daphne, AL
  • Licensed in Alabama

A: No. Child support in Alabama continues until the child is an adult. The age of majority, the age at which a child becomes an adult in Alabama is 19. If, before age 19, a person becomes 'emancipated' by marrying, joining the military, filing a petition for emancipation, etc., then the obligation of support ceases. But you have not described a situation in which your daughter is becoming emancipated.

If your ex ceases the payment of child support, you should make an appointment with DHR. Alabama DHR will represent you free of charge. They will bring your ex in to court, and the judge will explain to him what his obligations are.

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