Child Support and College Expenses in North Dakota
In North Dakota, the issue of child support and its application towards college expenses is governed by specific statutes and legal precedents. Understanding these laws can help parents navigate the financial aspects of their child’s higher education following a divorce.
North Dakota Child Support Laws
Under the North Dakota Century Code (NDCC) 14-09-08.2, child support obligations generally continue until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. However, the obligation does not extend beyond the child’s 19th birthday. This statute does not explicitly mention the use of child support for college expenses.
Child Support for College Expenses
In North Dakota, there is no statutory requirement for parents to contribute to their child’s college expenses as part of child support. The NDCC 14-09-08.2 does not extend the obligation of child support to cover college expenses. This is consistent with the majority of states in the U.S., where child support typically ends when the child reaches the age of majority, unless otherwise stipulated in a divorce decree or child support order.
Exceptions and Court Discretion
While the law does not explicitly require parents to pay for college expenses, it does not prohibit it either. In some cases, parents may agree to share these costs as part of their divorce settlement. If such an agreement is made, it can be included in the divorce decree and enforced by the court.
Furthermore, while the courts in North Dakota do not generally order child support to continue for college expenses, they do have some discretion in this matter. For example, if a child has special needs that require ongoing support into adulthood, the court may order child support to continue past the age of majority.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while child support in North Dakota typically ends when the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, it does not automatically extend to cover college expenses. However, parents can agree to share these costs, and such agreements can be enforced by the court. As always, it is recommended to consult with a legal professional to understand the specifics of your situation and how the law applies.