In deciding upon child support, the court will consider both the ability of each of the parents to pay support and the needs of the child. The court considers the child's age, health, station, occupation, earning capacity, amount, and sources of income.
The court must also consider Connecticut's Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines. The guidelines are income-based and indicate the appropriate level of child support based upon the parties' incomes and the number of the minor children. The guidelines are usually conclusive although the court is permitted to establish a different level of support based upon the particular facts and circumstances of the case.
The age of majority in Connecticut is 18, but, as a general rule, child support may continue until a child reaches the age of 19 or completes the twelfth grade, whichever occurs first. Courts in Connecticut may order either parent to contribute to college expenses under certain circumstances.