Divorce Issue Decided

Divorced fathers are financially responsible for the education of their children, the New Hampshire Supreme Court recently ruled.

The court said college education can no longer be considered a luxury, adding that "with rare exceptions, a college education is indispensable for success in obtaining and holding a reasonably well-paid and secure position."

Martha C. Lyman, associate director of financial aid, said yesterday she agrees with the court's opinion but feels the ruling's effect on Harvard will be minimal.

The Financial Aid Office "has, for some time, been taking the stand that divorced fathers are indeed responsible for their children's education," Lyman said.

David Westfall, professor of Law and a family law specialist said yesterday he does think the New Hampshire ruling will effect other states.

Holding divorced fathers responsible for their childrens' college expenses is not a novel concept because other states already have similar statutes, Westfall added.