As children approach college age, the practical needs addressed by a parenting plan often shift significantly. While Washington parenting plans generally apply until a child turns eighteen or graduates from high school, families frequently need to address related issues as children transition to adulthood.
This post looks at some of the common considerations that arise as children reach college age.
When a Parenting Plan's Residential Provisions End
A Washington parenting plan's residential schedule generally terminates when a child turns eighteen or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. After that point, the child is legally an adult, and the residential schedule is typically no longer enforceable in the same way. Parents should understand this transition point so they are not caught off guard as a child approaches this age.
Post-Secondary Educational Support
Washington law allows courts to order support for a child's post-secondary education in certain circumstances, separate from the standard child support obligation. This is not automatic and generally requires a specific request and analysis of relevant factors. Families with a college-bound child should consider addressing this issue well before the child graduates from high school.
Coordinating Holidays and Breaks with a College Schedule
Even after the formal residential schedule ends, many families find it helpful to informally coordinate holidays, school breaks, and college move-in or move-out logistics between households. While courts generally do not enforce these arrangements once a child is an adult, clear communication between parents can informally help ease the transition for the child.
Addressing Support for Adult Children with Disabilities
In situations involving an adult child with a disability, Washington law may allow for continued support beyond the usual termination age. These cases require specific legal analysis based on the child's circumstances. Families in this situation should seek guidance well before the child reaches the age that would otherwise end support.
The transition to college often raises new questions for families, even after the formal parenting plan has run its course. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we help families throughout Washington address post-secondary support and related issues as children reach adulthood. We offer free telephone case evaluations to discuss your situation, call today 425-800-0573
