Parents going through a divorce or any other family law litigation face unique challenges and stresses, especially making sure that your children’s future is protected during this process.
One of the biggest issues facing parents during this difficult time is the issue of child support. How can your interest in the proceedings be safeguarded? How does child support even work? And, what choices can you make to protect your family?
If you are going through family law proceedings involving a child in the state of Texas, I can provide you with answers to your questions about child support. I understand that working through this aspect of any case is difficult, and I’m here to help you navigate this process by helping you stay informed and protecting your rights.
Child Support Basics in the State of Texas
The Texas Family Code provides standard guidelines for child support. They generally calculate child support payments based on the income of the person who will be paying, otherwise known as the “obligor.”
The standard percentage of child support starts at 20% of the obligor’s net income per month for only one child, and an additional 5% for each child thereafter. The percentage is 40% for five children, and the Texas Family Code guidelines for six or more children state that it should be “not less than the amount for five children.”
There is a maximum amount of child support they can be awarded under these guidelines. However, either parent can argue that child support should be set above or below the guideline amount. The percentage may also be affected if the obligor is caring for children whom they already support that are not involved in the current court proceedings.
General Legal Information on Child Support in Texas
Along with health insurance provisions, visitation, and conservatorship, child support is one of several necessary parts of any court order involving children.
Depending on the age of the children involved in the proceedings, any of these issues can be changed or modified several times before they turn 18. If parental circumstances or the circumstances of the child change, either parent can ask for a modification of the child support.
Modifying Child Support in Texas
If you feel that your child support order should be changed to raise or lower the support amount ordered, you need to contact an attorney to discuss your options.
If there has been a material and substantial change of circumstances for either party or the children since the last court order, you may be entitled to a modification of your child support. These circumstances vary, but could involve experiences such as:
- Moving to a substantially different location
- The frequency of visitation with the child changing
- The obligor’s income changing
There may also be unique circumstances such as a material change in living conditions or income that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Any modification to the current order may be subject to the judge’s decision about what is best for the children involved.
Contact My Office For Child Support Issues
Whether you are new to the child support process or working through current or past obligations, I can help you navigate the sea of child support laws and information. My goal is to help you feel confident that your family is protected, no matter what difficult legal situations you are facing.
I currently serve families in Fort Bend County, Brazoria County, and Harris County in any family law issues they may be experiencing. When you are ready to discuss your child support situation and your options, reach out to me for help. Call my offices at 281-944-5485 or 979-267-7660 to discuss the specific details of your situation. I look forward to assisting you in your family law needs.