Q: What is a reasonable time for one parent to submit receipts/statements to request reimbursement for extraordinary expens

A: 30 days is a reasonable amount of time, and usually, the other party then has 30 days to either reimburse you or the provider.

A: That sounds like a pain and that the other parent is not being reasonable. The remedy is to request a provision that if receipts are not submitted within a certain period of time that reimbursement is waived.

A: Hi There!

I am sorry to hear that you are going through this. I know that co-parenting with an ex can be difficult, and the financial relationship that you two now share is oftentimes wrought with strife, frustration, and consternation. Assuming that your Orders (the parenting plan and the related support order) contain somewhat standard language - there is generally an element of notice/conferral/consent to the incurred expense and then there is a period of time after the expense is incurred that the receipt needs to be provided to the other party. That timeframe is generally 30 days. As a matter of rule of thumb, that request is waived if not provided within 30 days. That said, I would waive a flag of caution because family courts are courts of "equity" and can exercise that judicial power and discretion in ways that many do not foresee.

I always think that a practical perspective is important. If you are talking about $50 and the risk is that you end up in front of the Court. To me, no Court action is worth $50. However, if we are talking thousands of dollars, that can be an entirely different circumstance. All of that to say, perspective and discernment are important when making these types of judgment calls. I sincerely wish you only the best as you move forward.

Best,

Christopher N. Little, Esq.

Managing Attorney

CNL Law Firm, PLLC

720-370-2171

www.cnllaw.com

*Please note that while I am an attorney, I am not your attorney and do not represent you or your legal interests. I highly suggest that you consult with a qualified domestic relations attorney prior to making any decisions related to this answer or your question.