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How long must a parent support a child?

Normally, until the child reaches majority, usually 18 years of age. However, if the child is disabled, the obligation may continue indefinitely. Some states also require the parents to provide for the education of the child even if the child has passed the age of majority. But if the child is "emancipated", then the obligation of the parent normally ends.

What is "emancipation"?

Emancipation means that the child, although a minor, becomes legally independent of the parents. Generally this occurs when the minor child marries, enters military service, or goes through a court proceeding in which a judge declares the child emancipated.

Can an emancipated child become "unemancipated"?

Yes. For example, if a child entered into a void or voidable marriage (thus becoming emancipated) and that marriage is annulled, the obligation of support will generally be reinstated. If, on the other hand, the child's marriage was valid and ended in divorce, the child will normally remain emancipated.