Legal Question in Family Law in Tennessee

Child Support for Mentally Handicapped

Details: mentally handicapped child turns 18 and attends public school. Child will never graduate high school, but will be able to attend until age 21. At age 18, child becomes eligible for SSI payments from the government and Medicaid. If child support continues, child does not receive governmental benefits and is not able to enroll in programs available through governmental assistance. The child has no physical handicap and is in no special programs other than special ed class at school. Will child support requirements end at age 18?


Asked on 4/01/02, 5:33 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Gregory Smith Law Office of Gregory D. Smith

Re: Child Support for Mentally Handicapped

Your answer will probably hinge on what your divorce decre says. For more info, see www.gsmithlawfirm.com

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Answered on 4/01/02, 6:16 pm
Beth Brooks Beth Brooks, Attorney

Re: Child Support for Mentally Handicapped

The Judge loses jurisdiction over this child at age 18, so hurry and file a Petition for lifetime support. Your other questions are in the nature of a crystal ball and are a matter of proof and the Judge's discretion. Contact someone in your zipcode. Good luck.

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Answered on 4/02/02, 7:50 am


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