questions & answers

Question: I am paying child support for 3 children over 18. I was told by AZDES that it doesn't matter. I have to pay forever. I find that hard to believe. They are all in their 20s with children and married. I have only 1 at home who will 18 in 6 months. I've requested a modification and that's when I was told it doesn't matter, I will pay my ex forever.

Answer: Normally, child support ends when the child turns 18, but it often continues beyond 18 if the child is still in high school.  Arizona Revised Statutes, Section 25-501.  However, there are special circumstances where support can be ordered to continue even longer.  A.R.S.  Section 25-320.  For example:  the court can order continued support for a mentally disabled child past the age of 18.  You should discuss the issue with a lawyer to help you figure out your best course of action.There are 3 programs in Arizona that you can use to get some inexpensive legal advice and guidance.  One is the Modest Means Program.  If you are financially qualified for the program, for a $75 fee, Modest Means  will arrange a one hour consult with an experienced attorney.  If you need additional help and the attorney agrees to take your case, the fee charged will not exceed $75 per hour.  The telephone number is (866)637-5341.  Both the Maricopa and Pima County Bar Associations have lawyer referral programs that offer a 30 minute consult with an experienced attorney.  Maricopa County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute consult for a fee of $40.  The telephone number is (602) 257-4434.  Pima County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute consultation for a fee of $35.  The telephone number is (520) 623-4625.