Child Support Expenses in North Dakota
Child support is a legal obligation in North Dakota, designed to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial needs of their child or children. The North Dakota Century Code provides specific guidelines on what expenses child support should cover.
Regular Living Expenses
Child support primarily covers the regular living expenses of the child. These expenses include food, clothing, housing, and other basic necessities. The aim is to maintain an adequate standard of living for the child, similar to what they would have enjoyed if the parents were living together (North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-09.7).
Medical Expenses
Under North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-08.1, child support also covers medical expenses related to the child that are not already covered by health insurance. This includes costs for prenatal care, birth, and any medical services related to the child’s health and wellbeing.
Educational Expenses
While not explicitly stated in the North Dakota Century Code, educational expenses are often considered a part of child support. This can include school fees, costs for books and supplies, and other related expenses. However, the inclusion of educational expenses in child support payments may depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the discretion of the court.
Transportation and Related Expenses
Child support may also cover expenses for transportation, meals, and lodging incurred for the placement of the child or in order to receive counseling, legal, or medical services related to the child (North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-08.1).
Other Expenses
The court may also order the payment of other expenses in the best interest of the child. This can include expenses related to the mother’s pregnancy and confinement, as well as any other costs deemed necessary for the child’s wellbeing (North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-08.1).
Limitations and Exclusions
It’s important to note that child support does not cover expenses for lost wages, gifts, vacations, or other similar expenses of a birth mother (North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-08.1). Additionally, the court has the discretion to modify an order for future support, subject to section 14-09-09.6 of the North Dakota Century Code.
In conclusion, child support in North Dakota covers a wide range of expenses necessary for the child’s wellbeing, including regular living expenses, medical costs, educational expenses, and transportation costs. However, the specific expenses covered can vary depending on the circumstances of the case and the discretion of the court.