| It is much better to go into a mediation with an idea of what the base line is. For example, it used to be--and I think it still is--the rule that almost every judge in NY State would require a father to contribute to the level of tuition, room, and board at a state school. If there are "special circumstances" the judge will require more $ to pay for a more expensive option. For example, if a kid really were at the Julliard level for music, it MIGHT be possible to convince a judge that that was a special circumstance. (How much dad has to pay depends upon things like how much dad earns, how much mom earns, amount that is in a college savings account, etc.)
In any event, IF that's still the norm in NY State, you are a SAHM and your H earns a good living, it makes little sense to accept an offer of in-state tuition, r &B, because that's likely to be the worst you'd do if you litigate. Your H undoubtedly knows what is likely to happen if your case is litigated. You need to level the playing field by at least finding out what is LIKELY to happen. To do that, you need an attorney's advice.
Good luck! |