Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer

As the new year begins, many families are focused on college applications and the daunting task of figuring out how to finance higher education. For divorced or separated parents, this process can add an extra layer of complexity. Questions often arise about how to share these expenses, what legal obligations exist, and how to navigate this significant milestone while prioritizing your child’s best interests. Whether you’re already divorced or planning to separate, understanding your options and planning ahead can make a world of difference.

Are Divorced Parents Legally Required to Pay for College?

The short answer is no, you are not legally required to contribute to your child’s post-secondary educational expenses unless it is explicitly stated in your divorce agreement. Many parents choose not to include language about college costs in their final dissolution agreements for this reason. However, the absence of a legal obligation does not diminish the importance of discussing how you and your co-parent will approach this responsibility if it is within your financial means.

Tips for Collaborating on College Expenses

If you are already divorced and college costs were not addressed in your agreement, here are some practical tips to help you and your co-parent navigate this process:

  1. Start the Conversation Early: Open communication is key. Sit down with your co-parent to discuss your child’s aspirations, potential college options, and the associated costs.
  • Assess Financial Resources: Both parents should evaluate their financial situations. Transparency about what each party can reasonably contribute is essential.
  • Explore Financial Aid Options: Encourage your child to apply for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities. This can reduce the financial burden on both parents. It may also allow your child to feel like he or she has “some skin in the game.”
  • Consider Mediation: If conversations become challenging, mediation can be a helpful tool to work through disagreements and reach a fair agreement.

Planning for College During Divorce Proceedings

If you are planning a divorce and have children who may attend college in the future, it’s worth considering whether to include provisions for college expenses in your agreement. While it’s impossible to predict exact costs or your financial situation years down the road, a few key points can be addressed, such as:

  1. Whether both parents will contribute to tuition, room and board, and other expenses.
  • A cap on contributions based on in-state tuition, in accordance with the statutes governing post-secondary education in Connecticut.
  • Expectations around financial aid applications and who will complete them.
  • Creating a plan for college visits and how those associated costs will be paid.

While including a clause for the court to retain jurisdiction over post-secondary educational expenses in a divorce agreement can provide clarity, it’s not the right choice for every family. Be sure to consult with an experienced family law attorney to weigh the pros and cons based on your unique circumstances.

At Wolf & Shore Law Group, we understand that every family’s situation is unique. Whether you’re navigating college expenses post-divorce or planning for the future during a separation, we’re here to help. Contact us today to discuss your questions and learn more about how we can assist you in creating a plan that works for your family.  Ever argue with a woman? Let Wolf & Shore Law Group go to work for you. Click here, call us at 203.745.315, or email us at info@wolfandshorelaw.com.

Skip to content