Submitted by srossetti on Mon, 05/16/2011 - 11:28
I have two kids one that is 18 and one that is 21 all through my divorce I have had to pay half of the medical expenses as it says in my divorce agreement for the minor children but doesn't tell me when to stop. So I was wondering when do the courts say they are not minors anymore for me to end paying these payments. Once they are out of high school or out of college? Could you please let me know your thoughts on this.
When medical expense obligations end in MA
You need to look at the order entered by the Family Court to see if there is a date specified regarding the date the order ends. Or, look at your agreement and see if the term "emancipation" is defined. The answer to your question (when your support obligations end) will depend on what you find there and on the unique circumstances of your case. However, child support obligations, including medical expenses, do not automatically end when the child turns 18. follow this link for more information about when child support obligations end and for a discussion of how "emancipation" is defined in Massachusetts.
my agreement has no date all
my agreement has no date all it states is that when my son turns 18 and doesnt attend a college my support will stop and if they do go onto school then i will be paying till then are out. so if that is how the support works then wouldnt my medical be the same? or do i have to take this to the judge and have them put a date on it.
Medical
Based on what you have said your health insurance coverage obligation may terminate upon the child's emancipation. If the agreement is silent to the health insurance termination date, then contacting the court for clarification is a good idea.
Wyckoff Nissenbaum
www.SomervilleLawOffice.com