The Japanese have a term, kenzoku, which translated literally means family.. The connotation suggests a bond between people who've made a similar commitment and who possibly therefore share a similar destiny.
The laws in different states vary on whether a stepparent in this situation may have child custody rights or pay child support. In some states and situations, the stepparent may be ordered to pay child support if the stepparent loses primary physical custody of the child.
Posted April 24, 2010 5:19pm. If both parents sign a stipulated agreement that a parent will pay child support until age 21, and the judge signs the agreement, it becomes the order of the court. Child Support services and the Family Law Court will enforce the agreement until the child turns 21.