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.
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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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Ashley was amazing when it came to handling my case. I recommend her to anyone seeking a help with family court issues.- Seth
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Coker, Robb & Cannon, Family Lawyers made my legal process easy even in tough circumstances. The whole team was professional and quick, which really eased my stress. So grateful.- Jimmy V.
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I can't say enough good things about Shelby. He is thorough, bright, diligent, and all-around excellent at what he does. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable in his field, but he is also kind and sympathetic. He listened to my concerns and hopes for the future while also considering the facts and fighting hard with my best interest in mind. I appreciated that he even followed-up with me after everything was said and done just to make sure I was settling in to my new normal. I will recommend Shelby to anyone who may find themselves in this tough position. He helped me every step of the way.- Tessa D.
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Found Tyler Livingston to be very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. He made our experience extremely easy and pleasurable. We are grateful for all of his help and recommend him highly!- Betsi S.
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I recently had the privilege of working with Shelby for my divorce and custody proceedings, and I am absolutely delighted with the exceptional level of support and expertise he provided. Throughout the entire process, Shelby demonstrated unwavering professionalism and dedication. Shelby listened attentively to my concerns, fears, and wishes, ensuring that I felt heard and understood. He provided comprehensive guidance, addressing all my questions and explaining complex legal matters in a way that was easy to comprehend. The success I achieved in securing international custody of my children stands as a testament to Shelby's expertise and unwavering diligence. His remarkable ability to achieve such outcomes in such a difficult case is a true testament to his capabilities. He also displayed genuine care and empathy throughout the entire process. His compassion and understanding made me feel reassured. I would wholeheartedly recommend Shelby to anyone in need of a family lawyer.- Anonymous
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I recently had the privilege of working with Shelby for my divorce and custody proceedings, and I am absolutely delighted with the exceptional level of support and expertise he provided. Throughout the entire process, Shelby demonstrated unwavering professionalism and dedication. Shelby listened attentively to my concerns, fears, and wishes, ensuring that I felt heard and understood. He provided comprehensive guidance, addressing all my questions and explaining complex legal matters in a way that was easy to comprehend. The success I achieved in securing international custody of my children stands as a testament to Shelby's expertise and unwavering diligence. His remarkable ability to achieve such outcomes in such a difficult case is a true testament to his capabilities. He also displayed genuine care and empathy throughout the entire process. His compassion and understanding made me feel reassured. I would wholeheartedly recommend Shelby to anyone in need of a family lawyer.- Asif
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?
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Video Consultations & Meetings Available
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Voted Best Family Law Firm & Best Law Firm in Denton County
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Working Hard to Achieve the Best Results Possible
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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.
