Funding your child’s private school education post-divorce could be a complex issue. Canada’s family court considers what is best for the child, as well as you and your former spouse’s financial ability to pay for tuition—in addition to other obligations.
Discover the details of funding an elite education post-divorce, and contact us with your questions. We are Toronto’s certified divorce specialists, and we have the unique skills you want on your side when you dissolve your marriage.
Canada’s Federal Child Support Guidelines are meant to ensure the child’s needs are met. The custodial parent is responsible for paying a portion of their everyday expenses, such as food, housing, medical care, and education. However, funding private school tuition is typically expensive when compared to free public schools, and this cost could be considered an extraordinary expense.
There are some key points the courts would likely consider when deciding whether you should pay for your child’s elite education or not. If the child is or has already been enrolled or if they have a valid need for this type of schooling, the court could look more favourably toward adding it to the parent’s support payment. However, if the parent is simply not financially stable enough to cover these educational expenses, then the court may reconsider. As well, if the spouses previously agreed on tuition, both parties would likely be held to that contract.
If the child’s parents do not agree about who should cover the cost of private school tuition, the court may intervene. In this case, it is common in Canada for the judge to order one or both parents to contribute to this expense based on their financial circumstances at the time of the divorce. The important consideration here is always the child’s needs and welfare. The Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm could help structure a divorce decree that benefits the children while still preserving your financial stability.
If you have decided to end your marriage, contact the family law professionals at The Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm. We serve high-net-worth individuals in Ottawa, Toronto, Kawartha Lakes and Oakville. We are there for you when you need us. Call our legal team today to learn how to manage child support and fund an elite education post-divorce.
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