Fort Worth Child Support Attorneys
Helping You Understand & Navigate the Child Support Process
Child support is a court-ordered payment made by one parent to the other to help cover the costs of raising a child. In Texas, child support is typically paid by the noncustodial parent to the custodial parent, although there are exceptions to this rule. The amount of child support a parent is required to pay is determined by the court and is based on a number of factors, including the parents' income, the child's needs, and more.
At Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers, we understand that child support is a sensitive and often contentious issue. Our Fort Worth child support lawyers are here to help you navigate the process and work toward a fair and favorable outcome. Whether you are seeking child support or are the parent who will be required to pay, we can help.
Call (940) 293-2313 or contact us online to request a confidential consultation with one of our attorneys today.
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.
Child Support Laws in Texas
As we mentioned earlier, child support is a court-ordered payment, and both parents have certain legal rights and obligations. It is typically paid by the noncustodial parent to the custodial parent. The court will determine the amount of child support the noncustodial parent is required to pay based on the state's guidelines. The noncustodial parent will then be required to make these payments to the custodial parent.
Child support laws in Texas are complex. The state has specific guidelines that are used to determine the amount of child support a parent is required to pay. However, these guidelines are not always followed, and the court may deviate from them in certain situations.
Under Texas law, the following factors are used to determine child support:
- The parents' income
- The child's needs
- The child's age
- The child's health
- The child's educational needs
- The child's standard of living before the divorce
- The parents' financial resources
- The parents' financial obligations
- The parents' debts
- The parents' assets
- The amount of time the child spends with each parent
These are just a few of the many factors that may be considered when determining child support. The court has the discretion to consider any relevant factor when making a decision.
Child support payments can be made in a variety of ways. In some cases, the noncustodial parent will be required to make payments directly to the custodial parent. In other cases, the payments may be made through the Texas Child Support Disbursement Unit (TxCSDU). This is a state-run organization that collects and disburses child support payments. The TxCSDU can be used to make payments by mail, phone, or online.
-
First off I must say that this law firm saved me at least six months of a headache and so much money in the end. Tyler Livingston was such a pivotal part in helping me sell my deceased mother's property. We had to probate a will within a three week period and he put in the extra time and effort to ensure the success of our trial. The professionalism, the care and concern, not to mention the wanting to help someone with their family problems. If I ever have another family concern or worry I know the first person I am going to call. I cannot thank him enough for what he has done to help.- Blake E.
-
“I am so thankful to her for doing above and beyond.”- Anonymous
-
This firm is rock solid. They give you swift and clear advice and react appropriately and professionally to all the ups and downs throughout the tough process. Ashley Covert and her paralegal Ashley Leverett handled my divorce and they did a wonderful job.- Jamie
-
We are from California and we needed a local probate attorney. After calling around and speaking with 3 different attorneys, we settled on Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers. Tyler Livingston and his staff were amazing and very efficient. Even though we are in California, he kept us up to date. He settled our case in 5 months and we are extremely grateful for the service we received. If you are looking for a highly-skilled, affordable attorney, this is the firm we recommend.- Helena R.
-
Ashley Covert and her paralegal, Ashley Leverett were amazing from the very beginning. After my consult with Ashley C. I immediately felt comfortable with opening up to her about my situation and hired her right there. She made my divorce process very easy and stress free (this was HUGE for me as I had a lot of stressful situations arise during this process). Would definitely recommend and hire her again if I ever needed to!- Kathryn L.
-
Having Malorie by my side gave me the confidence and assurance I desperately needed during the most difficult and chaotic time in my life. She, and her team, were always available to thoroughly answer my constant questions, and in language I could understand. They always made me felt “seen” during the numerous times situations turned emotional, while at the same time, reassured by their calming expertise on a path forward. Time after time, that expertise was challenged, and without fail, was found to be correct. They proved to me that I could trust them to always tell me the correct, and up-to-date information on matters they are experts in, and just as importantly, when to seek different counsel on matters they are not. I truly cannot express how much I appreciate all Malorie and her team did for me. So, if you find yourself in a situation where you need someone to be your champion, please call them and see for yourself. I am so glad I did.- Russ
-
Thank you Lauren and team for the professionalism, diligence, and promptness with handling my divorce. Made a tough process much easier.- Alex
-
He was kind, compassionate and listened to my needs and concerns. He efficiently handled and executed what needed to be done in a timely fashion! Shelby and his staff are amazing!- Michele
Child Support Calculation in Texas
Child support in Texas is calculated using a formula that takes into account the parents' income and the number of children they have. The formula is based on the Texas Child Support Guidelines, which are set by the state.
Under the Texas Child Support Guidelines, the noncustodial parent is typically required to pay:
- 20% of their net income for one child
- 25% of their net income for two children
- 30% of their net income for three children
- 35% of their net income for four children
- 40% of their net income for five children
- Not less than 40% of their net income for six or more children
These percentages are based on the noncustodial parent's net income, which is their income after taxes and other deductions. The court will also consider other factors when determining child support, such as the child's needs, the parents' financial resources, and more.
It is important to note that the Texas Child Support Guidelines only apply to parents who earn up to $9,200 per month. If the parents earn more than this amount, the court has the discretion to deviate from the guidelines and order a different amount of child support.
What Happens If You Don't Pay Child Support in Texas?
Child support is a court-ordered payment, and failing to make these payments can have serious consequences. If you do not pay child support, the custodial parent can take legal action to enforce the order.
The court has several options for enforcing child support orders, including:
- Wage garnishment
- Seizing your tax refund
- Seizing your property
- Placing a lien on your property
- Suspending your driver's license
- Suspending your professional license
- Reporting the delinquency to credit bureaus
- Contempt of court
If you are having trouble making your child support payments, it is important to take action right away. You may be able to request a modification of the child support order. However, you will still be required to make the payments until the court approves the modification.
Why Choose Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers?
-
Video Consultations & Meetings Available
-
Voted Best Family Law Firm & Best Law Firm in Denton County
-
Working Hard to Achieve the Best Results Possible
-
Deeply Committed to Listening & Helping You
How We Can Help
Our Fort Worth child support lawyers at Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers, can provide invaluable assistance in various ways. We have a dedicated team of experienced attorneys who specialize in family law, including child support matters.
Contact us today at (940) 293-2313 to discuss your case with our team.
