The idea that parents no longer have a maintenance obligation towards their child once the child reaches the age of 25 is widely held… and false!
In fact, Article 203(1) of the Civil Code stipulates that fathers and mothers are obliged to provide, in proportion to their means, for the accommodation, maintenance, health, supervision, education, training and personal development of their children; and that if the child’s education is not yet complete, this obligation continues after the child reaches the age of majority.
Consequently, if the child is still in education beyond the age of 25, their parents must continue to provide for them until they are able to earn their own living.
But what if your child keeps repeating a year, preferring to party rather than work? What if Tanguy prefers to collect qualifications rather than enter the world of work?
The ‘spoilt children’ case law may be invoked and, where applicable, will allow you to be released from your maintenance obligation.
