Judge orders more child support so girl can make it on Broadway

Parents in Colorado who divorce are no doubt familiar with various challenges that may arise when developing plans for future care and upbringing of their children. It is often possible to achieve amicable solutions to child support, visitation and custody issues. Regardless of the details in a particular situation, the court has the final say when it comes to determining who will pay support (if anyone), where a child will live and what the overall future parenting plan will be with regard to visitation, financial contribution and other related matters.

A former couple in another state got a big surprise recently when a judge ruled they must each pay $250 a year for lessons to help their daughter realize her dream of becoming a Broadway stage performer. Previously, the father was the only one paying child support of $113 per month. The judge, however, said he recently interviewed the girl and was very impressed by her demeanor.

The judge told the parents that not only should they applaud their daughter’s efforts, but foot the bill for lessons as well. Their combined salaries are approximately $56,000 per year. It is understandable that setting aside hundreds of dollars for supplemental activities may pose a great financial challenge to some.

The judge did state that every case should be decided according to its own details; therefore, this was not a blanket ruling that divorced parents must now pay increased child support for their children’s extra curricular activities. Generally speaking, the court does not take such decisions lightly. Anyone in Colorado seeking solutions that align with particular needs and long-term goals may retain the assistance of an experienced family law attorney.

Source: New York Post, “Your gifted kid is going to cost you more in child support“, Julia Marsh, Nov. 3, 2016