Nashua, NH asked in Child Custody, Child Support and Family Law for Massachusetts

Q: Can I file for child support for my 18 year old high school student with severe mental illness

My daughter has lived with me full time for 4 years. My ex had sole custody of her legally. He hardly gave me any financial support. Since she has turned 18 he refused to help with her. She is still in high school and has a severe mental illness. I have tried taking him to court about a year ago but he said if I went along with it I would regret it and he would make my life miserable. He was abusive when we were married so I’m still afraid of him

1 Lawyer Answer
Lillian J. LaRosa
Lillian J. LaRosa
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Woburn, MA
  • Licensed in Massachusetts

A: So the child has not graduated from high school and may have special needs also. There should be child support in accordance with the child support guidelines and you may need to once the child has completed high school seek contribution for the child's continued care via equity petition depending upon the circumstances. These threats to make your life miserable should be made known to the Court. If you feel like your life or personal has been threatened in these statements you can seek an abuse protection restraining order. Were any of these potential threats made in written form- say text message or email.

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