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Child Support

Denton County Child Support Attorneys 

Experienced Legal Guidance for Child Support Agreements in Collin County & Tarrant County

Child support cases involve two very sensitive issues: family and finances. While both parents may want what's best for their child, there are often disputes regarding a parent's ability to pay and the amount of support requested.

Our Denton, Collin, and Tarrant County child support attorneys understand how important it is that your children receive the financial support that they deserve. We work closely with you to help make the process as stress-free as possible and to ensure that your case receives a favorable outcome.

If your paperwork is submitted incorrectly or is incomplete, it can easily get lost in the system. Leave all the legal details to us, including paperwork and documents! Our child support attorneys in Denton, Collin, and Tarrant County can help to make sure all documents and paperwork are filed correctly and in a timely manner.

Make sure you have the best possible chance of getting the outcome you need. Call (940) 293-2313 to speak with a child support attorney!

Why Hire A Family Attorney?

We have helped families just like yours through all types of divorce and family law-related matters. Find out how one of our Board-Certified Family Law Specialists can help you.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Texas?

In Texas, the amount of child support is determined by the court based on specific factors. When parents do not live together—either following a divorce or because they're separated or not married—the non-custodial parent is required to make ongoing child support payments until the child turns 18 years old.

Child support in TX can be determined based on, but not limited to:

  • The number of children involved
  • The net income of the non-custodial parent
  • Basic living expenses for the child/children
  • Expenses for the child/children's health care
  • Expenses for the child/children's educational needs

Net resources include, but are not limited to:

  • Spousal maintenance
  • Self-employment income
  • Social Security or disability benefits
  • Worker's compensation
  • Retirement benefits
  • All wage and salary income (including tips and overtime)

Social security taxes, federal income taxes, state income taxes, union dues, and the cost of health insurance or cash medical support are deducted from the Obligor's resources to determine the Obligor's net resources. These deductions are calculated using the Texas Attorney General’s Tax Charts.

Do I Have to Pay Child Support if I'm Unemployed?

It is a common misconception that if the Obligor (the person paying child support) does not have a job, then they cannot be ordered to pay child support. If the Obligor is unemployed, then the court can order child support based on minimum wage. The amount will be calculated the same way as if the Obligor was employed.

If you have lost your job and have court-ordered child support payments, then the court needs to be made aware of your situation, even if you and your ex-spouse have reached an agreement. Your child support attorney can help you file for a modification of child support to either put it on hold or greatly reduce the amount while you remain unemployed.

This modified order is temporary until you find a new job. Once you find new employment, you will have to modify the order once again to reflect your new income.

You should also note that the court will not allow an indefinite amount of time to not pay any child support while hunting for a new job. Be sure to keep extremely accurate and detailed records regarding your job hunt process, as you may need to submit them to the judge as proof that you are indeed searching for a job and not putting off paying child support.

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    “Divorce and custody”
    Jackie and the team were very patient and understanding throughout the entire process. Jackie was always available for my questions and concerns.
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    I had a nasty divorce going with my ex-wife who was using one of the High Power Dallas Lawyers that was intent on making things difficult and costing both of us most of the money we were fighting over. Duane was able to calm me down and came up with an idea for the settlement that not only saved me and the ex money, but actually made his fees LESS EXPENSIVE!!! You will not hear of that many times with any lawyer. I would recommend him for a simple divorce or a complex one with all of the circumstances that always make things difficult. He just has a way of working things out with all parties that make so much sense the case gets settled and everyone gets what they want.
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    When I first contacted this firm, I was unsure. I was unsure on many things. I had a set of unique circumstances where I needed to seek a change for the safety of my son but due to something that is somewhat new territory. Shelby was upfront w/ me about both the positive & the negative possible outcomes but let me tell you – Shelby (and Rachel) fought for us.

    There was NOT one moment in time that I felt ignored, dismissed or unimportant; Moreover, I have severe, high anxiety & rather than punish me for it, Shelby & Rachel were understanding, comforting, logical & proactive EVERY STEP of the way. It was like I showed up, threw everything I had on a table while being a sobbing mess – they looked at every piece, held my hand & told me it would be okay. The entire system is long & draining but when we got to our trial date, Shelby was ON FIRE. My faith in him never waivered but that day in court, when we were finally through, I could’ve flown. Shelby (of course w/ the help of his right hand, Rachel!) was absolutely in his element & he stood up for us in all the ways my spirit needed to protect my son. I have shed more tears than I will EVER admit during the entire process but even during my madness, Shelby & Rachel were kind, uplifting & our WARRIORS in the courtroom.

    When I did my phone set up for a consultation, I told them I needed someone aggressive. When you first talk with them, they are so sweet! You’ll think: okay, these are not aggressive or mean people – BUT when the time comes, you can bet your bottom dollar they GO TO WORK. I cannot thank Shelby & Rachel enough for the things they’ve helped my son & I with. They have kept my son SAFE!!!! There aren’t enough descriptive words in our vocabulary to accurately portray what they mean to me. If you want a damn good team – YOU WANT THEM. Thank you Shelby & Rachel! Dax & I love yall!!

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    “I would highly recommend Shelby to anyone.”

    Shelby Hart is one of the many reasons to use this firm!! I had a very difficult case which involved children and finances, among other factors. When I first called the law firm I was unsure of what to expect, but was assured Shelby was the right lawyer for my case based on the specifics. They were not wrong. From day one, Shelby, was attentive, specific, empathetic, and worked tirelessly to make sure no detail was overlooked. He was very good at keeping me focused, even when emotions were high. I couldn't be happier with the outcome of my case and I know it was all due to Shelby's impeccable instincts and and experience. I would highly recommend Shelby to anyone. You won't be disappointed.

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    They made my divorce easy even in a difficult situation. I was stressed but they handled everything professionally and fast. I’m so grateful to the team. If you need a simple divorce they are the perfect choice.

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    Kelly was the second lawyer I had hired for my divorce matter after I had to terminate the first one. The difference was night and day - Kelly was always prepared, was willing to engage in strategy sessions, offered various unique approaches to problems, and was very easy to work with. I highly recommend her and Coker Legal in general.
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    “Would highly recommend.”
    I would highly recommend Jacqueline Canon and all of her staff. She and her staff worked very hard on my case for the past 3 years and never let me feel alone or out of the loop. It was a very long and tiring process, but was made easy by the professionalism, care and concern for myself and my family. There is nothing that I would not trust this office with, and while I hope that I don't have to hire them again, I would in a heartbeat.
    - Kevin
    “My attorney, Sheba George, was great.”
    My case was handled in a timely manner. Great communication and understanding. My attorney, Sheba George, was great.
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When Does Child Support End in Texas?

A common question about child support is "Does child support automatically end at 18?" In Texas, child support ends when the child is emancipated, which happens automatically when the child turns 18 years old. In some rare cases, a child can be emancipated at a younger age, such as by getting a full-time job or joining the military.

Do you need legal counsel for a child support case? Reach out to our team for guidance! The team at Coker, Robb & Cannon has been delivering effective child support solutions to families for over 20 years. Our Denton child support lawyers are committed to helping you resolve your child support matter as promptly and as effectively as possible. We have offices in Denton, Frisco, and Fort Worth to better serve you. We offer financing to help with retainer fees. Click here to see your options.

Is Child Support Tax Deductible in Texas?

No, child support is not tax deductible because it is not considered income. If you are paying child support, then you will not be able to deduct those expenses from your taxes. While you can deduct items such as alimony and other costs related to the care of your child, child support is not considered income and cannot be taxed in that way.

If you are going through a divorce, are seeking to establish child support, or would like to request a review of your existing child support obligations, Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers can help. We've been working with clients across Denton, Collin, and Tarrant County since 1998.

Recommended Reading on Child Support Law:

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