Child support is a hot button topic that arises during divorces or separations involving children. While it may not be a perfect system, child support is a necessary part of life when people have children, whether they are married or never been married. It’s crucial to remember that the child needs financial support from both parents. In Texas, the child support system is what the legislature has determined is the minimum level of financial support that a parent can give.
In this article, we will answer some common questions about child support in Texas and explain how our firm can assist you with your child support, custody, and visitation needs.
How is child support calculated in Texas?
In Texas, child support is calculated using guidelines established by state law. These guidelines consider the number of children involved, each parent’s income, and other factors, such as medical expenses and child care costs. The guidelines are designed to ensure that child support is fair and reasonable based on the unique circumstances of each family.
Can child support be modified in the future if circumstances change?
Yes, child support can be modified in the future if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income or a change in custody arrangements. It’s essential to note that the change in circumstances must be significant enough to warrant a modification.
How long does a parent have to pay child support in Texas?
In Texas, a parent is generally required to pay child support until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as if the child has special needs.
What happens if a parent fails to pay child support?
If a parent fails to pay child support, there can be serious legal consequences, including wage garnishment, suspension of driver’s license, and even imprisonment in extreme cases. It’s crucial for parents to take their child support obligations seriously and to work with an attorney if they are having difficulty meeting their payments.
Can child support be waived or negotiated in a divorce settlement?
In Texas, child support can be waived by agreement between the parties as long as the custodial parent did not receive government benefits for the child. However, even if the parents agree to waive the child support, the Judge has the discretion to not follow that agreement.
How is child support determined in Texas?
In Texas, child support is primarily determined by the income of the non-custodial parent. If there is no designation of custodial or non-custodial parent, the parent with the higher income may be required to pay child support. Other factors that may be considered include the child’s medical and educational needs and any special circumstances, such as a disability.
Child Support Cases at The Blacknall Firm
At The Blacknall Firm, we focus on cases where there are issues of custody, visitation, and child support. However, we do not take cases where the only issue is child support. We believe that child support should be part of a larger conversation about custody and visitation, and we want to ensure that our clients receive the best possible outcome for their family as a whole.
Contact The Blacknall Firm
If you are facing a family law issue and need representation, contact the Blacknall Firm today. Our team of experienced family law attorneys is dedicated to helping our clients achieve the best possible outcome in their cases. Let us put our skills and knowledge to work for you.
