As a family law lawyer and mediator, I know how challenging it can be for separating parents to agree on their children’s activities and expenses.
It’s so important to plan ahead, especially with the new academic year approaching.
Special or extraordinary expenses, as defined by Federal Guidelines, include child-care, medical needs, education, and extracurricular activities that are in your child’s best interests.
So, when discussing these expenses, it’s important to consider what’s reasonable based on your income, the child support you receive, and your family’s spending patterns before separation.
This could include costs such as medical insurance, post-secondary education, or special educational programs that meet your child’s unique needs.
Even if an expense seems manageable, it might still be considered extraordinary depending on your situation.
I recommend that parents openly discuss and plan their budget for the upcoming year, ensuring they cover all anticipated expenses and activities.
These are not always easy discussions to have. If reaching an agreement proves difficult, a mediator can be invaluable in situations such as these.
Always remember that the goal is to prioritize your children’s well-being while maintaining fairness for both parents.
If you or someone you know is going through divorce and would like expert advice as to the next steps, please reach out to me.