I never filed for child support when my daughters father left. She is now 18 and college bound, could we file now?

It depends on which state has jurisdiction.

Agree with GV... if you live in a state that allows for retroactive support, then you may be able to file. If you state does not allow for retroactive support, then no.

Agree, also if your state allows support past 18 if she is in college you may try also.

California is the state.

Even if a state allows for retroactive support, I doubt if it will be allowed in this case. Unless the reason you never filed for support was because the father had disappeared or had no income at the time, your neglect to file will not be rewarded.

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Originally Posted by GV70

It depends on which state has jurisdiction.

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The state is California. Nothing was ever filed due to the fathers lack of income and violent behavior. At the time I just wanted to leave and be safe. Now that she is going off to school it would be helpful. Is this possible.

California law ends a parent's legal duty to pay child support when an 18-year-old child completes high school or turns 19. California courts can't require even very wealthy parents to pay their children's college expenses once their kids reach adult age and are able to support themselves.

Paying for College When Parents are Divorced - Lawyers.com

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Originally Posted by shaxie

The state is California. Nothing was ever filed due to the fathers lack of income and violent behavior. At the time I just wanted to leave and be safe. Now that she is going off to school it would be helpful. Is this possible.

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Now you are paying the price for that safety. I would suggest you consult an attorney, but I'm afraid the answer is going to be no.

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Originally Posted by GV70

California law ends a parent's legal duty to pay child support when an 18-year-old child completes high school or turns 19. California courts can't require even very wealthy parents to pay their children's college expenses once their kids reach adult age and are able to support themselves.

Paying for College When Parents are Divorced - Lawyers.com

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Thank you. I just thought it could help her. We can figure it out. He probably still has no job.

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Originally Posted by ScottGem

Now you are paying the price for that safety. I would suggest you consult an attorney, but I'm afraid the answer is going to be no.

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Thanks. We will figure it out. He probably has never worked in these 18 years. And our safety was far more important.