Onondaga County Child Support Lawyer Advises Parents on College Funding Responsibilities

Syracuse family law attorney outlines New York rules on education costs

Most parents are pleased that their children are going to college, even though paying for it may be a concern. For divorced parents, who pays and how much can be a source of contention. As a family law attorney with extensive experience assisting clients in child support matters, I can help you understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to college costs and advocate for a fair allocation of the financial burden. The Bombardo Law Office, P.C., in Syracuse provides exceptional legal services throughout Onondaga County and the Central New York region.  

Understanding college expenses in child support cases

College expenses, which can include tuition and fees, housing, parking, meals, books and course materials, are not required to be included within New York child support orders. However, it is often a good idea to address the subject well in advance of when a son or daughter graduates high school. Parents may be able to negotiate a mutually acceptable division of costs and set parameters as to what overall tuition costs should be. Many agreements refer to the “SUNY Cap,” meaning that parents commit to share expenses up to the amount that it takes to attend a State University of New York institution. If parents cannot agree, they can petition the court to make the decision. I can represent you in negotiations with the other parent and present your case to the judge if necessary.     

Allocating college costs between parents

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to how college costs are allocated between parents. If the court decides that college expenses will be a part of child support, the judge will look at various criteria to determine division, including each parent’s income and ability to pay for college, the child’s academic background, and the type of school being considered if your son or daughter is at that stage. My law firm will protect your rights while being attentive to your child’s best interests in decisions regarding child support and college.

Modifying child support for college-related expenses

If your original child support order did not include college expenses or even if it did but is no longer adequate for the current situation, you may be able to have it modified. Modifying an order requires petitioning the court and convincing a judge that there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a child changing college plans or a major income increase or decrease. The other parent has the right to attend the hearing and argue against the modification. Whether you wish to have an order changed or need assistance defending the current child support terms, you can rely on my experience as I help you pursue a result that suits the current situation.

High-income or complex college support cases

While high net worth families might have more resources, issues involving the division of college expenses can still be contentious. The court may consider assets beyond salary to decide on each parent’s percentage of responsibility, taking into account bonuses, investments, trusts and any additional financial resources. In these cases, I work to gain a complete perspective on available funds in order to achieve an equitable outcome. 

Why hire a Syracuse attorney for college expense cases? 

As an attorney with in-depth understanding of New York family law, I can help in several ways. I will ensure you are not taken advantage of when it comes to college costs, including being made to pay too much or not receiving enough support from the other parent. I will negotiate to resolve disputes outside of court and if that is not an option, stand up for your interests before the judge. My firm drafts comprehensive divorce and separation agreements that consider college costs as part of child support. I also handle modifications and enforcements of orders to see that child support terms are up to date and honored by the parties.

Contact an Onondaga County lawyer to discuss college costs and child support

Bombardo Law Office, P.C. in Syracuse represents Central New York parents in all types of child support matters, including issues relating to college costs. Please call 1-315-488-5544 or contact me online to arrange a consultation.