Q: Am I required to pay child support if my teen is placed with DCF in MA?
In Massachusetts, my 15-year-old teen has a CRA (Child Requiring Assistance) due to mental issues and defiance. If I inform probation that I cannot manage her, and they place her with DCF (since her father has passed), will I be required to pay child support to the state or her new guardians? I am currently the sole guardian and there are no existing agreements regarding support.
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A:
If your teen is placed with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in Massachusetts, the situation regarding child support can depend on several factors. Typically, if your child is placed in the care of DCF, the state will step in to provide for her needs, and you may still be responsible for child support, especially if the court orders it. However, the nature of your support obligations might change depending on the specifics of your case.
You are likely still responsible for financial support unless the court determines that your obligation should be modified due to the circumstances, such as your child’s placement with DCF. In some cases, the state could seek child support from parents whose children are in foster care or other state custody. The amount could be adjusted based on your financial situation, but the obligation generally remains in place.
It’s a good idea to reach out to the local child support office or a family law attorney to discuss how your case might be impacted by your teen's placement. They can provide more details on how child support will be handled in this situation, and whether there are any potential adjustments to your payments based on the new circumstances.
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