Here's a breakdown:
What Generally Ends at 18 (in most US states):
* Financial Support: Parents are generally not legally required to financially support their 18-year-old child, even if they haven't graduated high school. This includes housing, food, clothing, and other necessities. Exceptions might exist if a court orders continued support due to specific circumstances (e.g., a disability preventing self-sufficiency).
* Legal Guardianship: At 18, the child is legally an adult and can make their own decisions. Parents lose legal authority to control their child's life choices.
What Might Continue (depending on circumstances and jurisdiction):
* Moral and Emotional Support: While not legally mandated, many parents continue to offer emotional and moral support to their adult children.
* Healthcare Decisions: If the 18-year-old lacks the capacity to make healthcare decisions (due to a mental or physical disability), parents might still have some legal authority, but this is highly dependent on the specific situation and state law. A power of attorney or guardianship order might be necessary.
* Continuing Education Support (Voluntary): Parents may choose to continue supporting their child's education financially or otherwise, but they are not obligated to do so.
* Emancipation: In some cases, a minor (under 18) can petition a court for emancipation, meaning they are legally declared independent from their parents. Even if not emancipated, an 18-year-old is generally considered an adult.
Important Considerations:
* State Laws Vary: The laws concerning parental support and responsibilities for adult children differ significantly from state to state. There might be nuances related to disability, ongoing dependency due to specific circumstances, or contractual agreements.
* Contractual Obligations: If the parents have entered into a contract (e.g., co-signing a loan), they remain liable under the terms of that contract regardless of the child's age.
* Child Support: Child support obligations generally end when the child turns 18, unless there are exceptional circumstances (such as disability).
In short: While the legal *obligation* of parents typically ends at 18, the nature of the parent-child relationship often continues, and parents may choose to provide support in various ways. However, they are not legally required to do so unless a court orders otherwise due to specific circumstances. If you have a specific situation, it's crucial to consult with an attorney familiar with family law in your jurisdiction.