College costs commonly arise during divorce proceedings, especially in high-asset divorces where one or both parties have the financial means to give their children a head start in life.
It should not be surprising that tuition and fees are a significant factor in divorce for many parents, given that private institutions charge approximately $38,000 and in-state public colleges about $11,000. All this is before you add room and board, meals, transportation fees, and other college-related costs.
If you’re divorcing and want to ensure your kids receive the money they need to pay for college, get the right legal advice in your best interest. Get legal advice today!
Regulations are not required statewide.
Over the years, Alabama’s legal framework on this subject has undergone numerous changes. In Bayliss v. Bayliss, a judge ruled in 1989 that a non-custodial parent must assist a non-minor kid with college fees. Since a person who has achieved the age of majority is not entitled to continue financial support, this was reversed in 2010.
Therefore, even if you have plenty of money, you cannot expect a judge to order your co-parent to cover your child’s college tuition when you file for divorce. You’ll have to haggle over this throughout your divorce.
Why Should You Prioritize College Funding?
Many parents, even if they have more than enough money to cover it, don’t want their kids to enter adulthood with tens of thousands of dollars in student loan debt.
This is something that you and your attorney can negotiate with the other party during a divorce, just like anything else. You must choose your priorities and the areas where you are prepared to compromise before going through a divorce. Consider your options if you are adamant about covering your children’s college costs.
Considering the children’s best interests.
When deciding on a divorce, the children’s best interests should always be the first priority. Unfortunately, sometimes this entails parting with possessions and resources that might make life after divorce much more uncomplicated. Be aware of your limits and what you are ready to give up; even while you want to provide for the long-term requirements of your children, you will also need the money and resources to launch a new life after your divorce.
Divorce attorneys can help you deal with this issue if it is one of your main concerns.
