HOUSTON CHILD SUPPORT ATTORNEY

Child support is an integral part of any custody suit or divorce involving children. The periodic, ongoing payments are a financial benefit for the children, as every child deserves care and support. This responsibility falls on both parents, so household finances are inherently split when the divorce is finalized. Determining child support payments is often complex and personal, so having an experienced child support lawyer is essential.

At Moffett Law Firm, our Houston child support attorneys understand you want what is best for your child, so we want to help you make the best decisions for them. We have extensive experience helping parents establish sensible child support orders for their families. Our caring lawyers strive to make the legal process as stress-free as possible and ensure you fully understand your legal options.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Texas?

In Texas, the legislature uses a statutory formula for establishing and calculating “guideline” child support. This formula varies depending on the number of children involved in the suit, whether a parent has a duty to support other children, and the net resources available to the parent ordered to pay. Texas courts may order temporary child support while the proceedings are pending.

The guidelines for calculating child support payments in Texas include the following:

• One child: 20% of the paying party’s net income
• Two children: 25% of the paying party’s net income
• Three children: 30% of the paying party’s net income
• Four children: 35% of the paying party’s net income
• Five children: 40% of the paying party’s net income
• Six or more children: No less than 40% of the paying party’s net income

Texas child support guidelines place a cap on the monthly net income a parent must pay. However, the court could also consider other factors that may justify paying child support above the guidelines. Our knowledgeable Houston child support lawyers can help you understand how much child support you or your spouse will have to pay, as the calculation process can be confusing.

Can You Change a Child Support Agreement in Houston?

After a divorce or separation, circumstances and needs change. You may find that your child support order no longer reflects your child’s needs or your ability to pay. You may sometimes make changes to your child support agreement, but you must do so through a court order. This can be a daunting process, so our seasoned lawyers can support you every step of the way to help you do what is best for your children.

Unfortunately, circumstances do not always change for the better. If one parent fails to meet their child support obligations, the other parent may need an experienced Houston child support attorney to enforce the order or make adjustments to the agreement. We take all child support issues seriously, as these payments ensure a child receives adequate care.

When Does Child Support Obligation End in Texas?

Typically, child support payments end when the youngest child turns 18. Payments may be required beyond this point if:

• The child has a disability
• The paying parent is behind on child support payments
• The child has not graduated from high school

There may be cases in which child support payments end before the child turns 18. These scenarios include:

• The child joins the military before their 18th birthday
• The child passes away
• The child gets married before their 18th birthday
• The child is emancipated before they turn 18

Parents that create child support agreements together can decide to extend the payments until the child graduates from college or determine other provisions for financial support. They can also choose to file a petition to terminate the agreement. Our skilled lawyers at Moffett Law Firm can help you understand when your child support payments end and what exceptions may apply to your unique situation.

Discuss Your Situation With a Trusted Houston Child Support Lawyer at Moffett Law Firm

Child support agreements can be one of the most challenging parts of a divorce, but they are crucial for the well-being of the children involved. Tensions may run high as these issues are often personal and emotional, so having a level-headed lawyer can make the process less stressful.

At Moffett Law Firm, we understand the ins and outs of child support agreements with over 30 years of experience in family law. Our extensive knowledge and advanced legal skills allow you to do what is best for your family. Whether you need to establish, modify, or enforce a child support order, our Houston child support lawyers are here to help. To schedule a consultation, please call (713) 333-5800 or fill out our contact form.