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A New Hampshire Child Support Order May Be Modified Using Massachusetts Law

On Behalf of | Jun 11, 2013 | Divorce & Family

There are significant differences in child support laws between Massachusetts and New Hampshire. One of the most significant differences, besides how child support is calculated, is that child support in New Hampshire ends when the child reaches 18 or graduates from high school, while child support in Massachusetts may be payable until the child reaches the age 23. Additionally, New Hampshire courts are prevented from ordering the payment of college expenses, while Massachusetts courts frequently make such orders so long as the child obtains a degree on or before age 23. Accordingly, which state law will govern the issue of child support is often critical and significant.

A New Hampshire court may modify its own child support order so long as at least one of the parties or child continues to reside in the state. If, however, the parents and the child relocate to Massachusetts subsequent to the issuance of the New Hampshire child support order, a Massachusetts court may modify the New Hampshire child support order under the laws of Massachusetts, not New Hampshire. Due to the significant differences between Massachusetts and New Hampshire child support laws, relocation of the parents and the child to Massachusetts may have significant consequences.

If you have any questions regarding child support laws in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, please contact an attorney at Hamblett & Kerrigan.

 

Kevin P. Rauseo is a former director at Hamblett & Kerrigan P.A. and has since been appointed as a Justice for the New Hampshire Circuit Court.  Please feel free to contact another attorney at Hamblett & Kerrigan to discuss your legal issues.

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