Legal Checklist When Your Kids Leave for College

It's about that time -- your nest is about to get a little emptier. There are a lot of emotions that can bubble up when a child goes off to college, much of it is apprehension and fear for their wellbeing. And while you might be focusing on the physical, emotional, and financial risks (as well as that GPA), there are some legal risks to be aware of as well.

So here are a few legal thoughts to throw on that college packing list before your child heads to campus:

Top 5 Legal Pitfalls for College Students

Hope for the best, plan for the worst, as they say. Knowing the kind of legal trouble your new college student can get into is the first step to keeping them out of it.

What Is a 529 Plan?

Hopefully you started this plan years ago, but don't worry if not. A 529 plan is a great way to save for future college expenses, and can come in the form of college savings accounts and prepaid tuition plans.

Can a Divorce Affect My Child's Chances of Getting Financial Aid?

Many couples put off divorce for the sake of their children. Do you need to delay it for the sake of your child's financial aid package?

After Divorce, Who Pays for College? 3 Tips for Parents

Many parents believe their financial obligations to their children end when the child turns 18. But this might not always be the case. So are you or your ex paying for tuition, room, and board?

College Student Credit Cards: 5 Tips to Avoid Debt

It's inevitable -- your son or daughter will run out of cash and come calling for money. (In our experience, that first call comes about week three.) So is a credit card, with all the interest but with all the purchase information as well, the better way to go?

Now Parents Can Have School Loan Debt, Too

Jealous your child might graduate with a degree of questionable value yet crippling school loan debt? Have we got news for you. You can now share some of that debt load with your child. Think of it as a final bonding experience. (That is, until the move back in after graduation.)

Related Resources:

• Find Education Lawyers Near You (FindLaw's Lawyer Directory)
• Back to College: A Legal Checklist for Students (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
• Moving Off-Campus: 5 Legal Dangers to Avoid (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
• Children Sue Mom Over No College Care Packages (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)