Child Support Lawyers Serving Austin And Surrounding Areas In Texas
Call 512-593-7560 For Help With Child Support Disputes In Texas
In Texas, determinations of child support obligations are made primarily according to statutory mathematical formulas. These formulas are somewhat complex, can vary in how they are used, and can be difficult to understand. Working with an experienced family law attorney will provide you with a better understanding of your child support obligation and what, if any, special circumstances may influence its calculation.
At Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC, we are highly experienced in assisting clients with navigating child support matters. Our board-certified family law attorneys, with a combined 70 years of experience, work with individuals who are going through divorces, involved in paternity suits and seeking post-decree modifications and order enforcement.
Understanding Child Support Guidelines In Texas
The standard calculation for your child support payment is based on your gross income from all sources less your Social Security withholding, your federal income tax withholding and your medical insurance premium (for children only), among other deductions. The resulting amount, labeled as your net resources, is then multiplied by a percentage attributed to the number of children you have to determine your child support obligation.
The Texas child support guideline calculations, however, are not ironclad, and arguments can be made to adjust a support obligation based on the child’s needs and the financial situations of both parents. Courts in Texas consider the following factors when deciding child support:
- Income of both parents
- Number of children
- Needs of the children
- Financial resources of both parents
- Age and health of the children
- Educational needs of the children
- Childcare and health care needs of the children
- Ability of both parents to provide for the children
During the initial separation phase, temporary custody payments may be necessary to ensure the financial well-being of the children. These payments are typically made by one parent to the other to cover essential expenses such as food, clothing and shelter.
Temporary child support arrangements are usually ordered by the court, but parties can also agree to a temporary support arrangement that is subject to court approval. They are usually made until a final child support order is established.
Child Support Modifications: When And How To Seek Changes
Child support orders can potentially be modified if circumstances for a parent or child change. When considering child support modifications, courts look at the current financial situations of both parents, the current needs of the children, and any other relevant factors. The court’s primary goal is to ensure that the child support order remains fair and in the best interests of the children.
Child support modifications may be warranted in the following situations:
- A significant change in income for either parent
- A change in the number of children
- A change in the needs of the children
- A change in the living arrangements of either parent
- A parent’s relocation to another state
- A parent’s retirement or disability
The process of seeking a child support modification typically involves filing a petition with the court, providing financial documentation and attending a hearing. An experienced family law attorney can guide you through this process and help you navigate any challenges that may arise.
The Child Support Enforcement Process In Texas
In Texas, child support enforcement is a critical aspect of ensuring that children receive the financial support they need. If a parent fails to pay child support as ordered, the other parent can seek enforcement through the court. The enforcement action may involve wage garnishment, asset seizure or other measures to collect the owed support.
Enforcement efforts can be particularly challenging when a parent is evasive or has complex financial arrangements. The Texas Attorney General’s office has a Child Support Division that can assist with enforcement efforts, providing an additional layer of support for families navigating the child support system. By working with a skilled and seasoned child support attorney at Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC, you will have a strong advocate to help you navigate the child support process and protect your child’s best interests.
Contact An Experienced Texas Child Support Lawyer In Austin
To learn more about how child support is calculated in Texas and how our attorneys can help you navigate support obligations, call 512-593-7560 or contact us online today to discuss your situation. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized guidance to help you achieve the most favorable outcome for your child. By scheduling a consultation with one of our experienced lawyers, you will gain a deeper understanding of your rights and responsibilities when it comes to child support and be one step closer to resolving your child support concerns.