Houston Child Support Attorney
Experienced Child Support Lawyers Serving Harris County, TX
Your drive to protect and provide for your children runs deep as a parent. We understand that facing changes like divorce or separation can bring apprehension about your ability to meet your children’s needs while also staying financially stable. These worries about the future and how they might affect your family’s lifestyle are deeply felt, and that’s completely understandable.
At Skillern Firm, we genuinely recognize the emotional weight that comes with child support decisions. Any child support arrangement must be fair and accurately reflect Texas law and your family’s situation. Your financial well-being, and that of your children, hinges on these outcomes being set up correctly.
Since 2010, Skillern Firm has focused on family law in Texas. We thoroughly understand the complex financial matters involved in calculating child support payments. We are here to guide Houston parents through the complexities of child support with clarity and unwavering support.
When you work with us, we help you understand how the Texas Family Code applies to your unique circumstances, including how guideline support interacts with parenting time, spousal maintenance, and your broader financial picture. We also take the time to talk through common concerns we hear from parents in the Houston area, such as how bonuses or fluctuating income may be treated, what happens if a co-parent lives out of state, and how support fits into an overall parenting plan. By walking through real scenarios and explaining what judges in Harris County and surrounding counties typically look for, we aim to give you a realistic view of what to expect so you can make informed choices.
We offer virtual consultations. Call (832) 688-6606 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a Houston child support attorney today.
How Texas Calculates Child Support
Texas has clear guidelines for determining child support, mainly focusing on the paying parent’s “net monthly resources.” We get this number by taking all gross monthly income and subtracting specific allowable deductions.
Once we figure out the net monthly resources—up to a current cap of $9,200 per month—a set percentage is applied based on how many children need support. For instance, it is 20% for one child and 25% for two. If income exceeds this cap, additional support might be ordered if the child’s proven needs are met. Courts can also adjust the guideline amount if applying it would be unfair or inappropriate due to factors like a child’s special needs or other compelling situations.
Beyond this main support amount, Texas law also requires provisions for the child’s medical and dental support, including health insurance coverage.
For many parents in Houston, understanding how judges actually apply these guidelines in local courts is just as important as knowing the formulas. In practice, courts in Harris County and neighboring counties look closely at whether the proposed support will realistically cover a child’s day-to-day needs, such as housing, transportation, school costs, and basic activities. They may also consider whether either parent is already paying support for children in another household and how that affects what is fair. By reviewing pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of recurring expenses with you, we can help you prepare the documentation that gives the court a clear and accurate picture of your financial situation.
Key factors that go into Texas child support calculations include:
- The type of income you receive. Wages, salary, self-employment income, bonuses, commissions, and many other sources are typically reviewed to determine gross income before deductions.
- Mandatory deductions allowed by law. Taxes, certain insurance premiums, and other specific deductions are subtracted to arrive at net monthly resources.
- The number of children before the court. Guideline percentages change depending on how many children are entitled to support under the current order.
- Other children you support. If you have a legal duty to support children in another household, that can affect the guideline percentage applied.
- Special or extraordinary needs. Ongoing medical, educational, or therapeutic needs can sometimes justify support that differs from the guideline amount.
when & how to modify your houston Child support order
Child support orders are designed to meet children’s needs. Still, sometimes life changes mean the original terms are not practical or fair anymore. Texas law recognizes that circumstances evolve, and parents may need to ask for adjustments to reflect their current situation. Ultimately, any modification must always put the child’s best interests first.
In Texas, there are two main reasons a court might modify a child support order. One is if there has been a “material and substantial change” in circumstances since the last order. This could be a significant change in a parent’s income, a shift in where the child lives, or new medical or educational needs. The other reason is if three years have passed since the order was issued or last updated and the monthly support amount differs by 20% or $100 from what current guidelines would suggest.
To legally adjust a child support order, you must file a “Petition to Modify the Parent-Child Relationship” with the court that issued the original order. Informal agreements between parents to change payment terms are not legally enforceable, so getting a new court order to make any modifications official is crucial.
If you are in Houston and thinking about modifying a child support order, understanding Texas laws and legal procedures is key. With the proper guidance, you can navigate the process and seek an updated order that genuinely reflects your current circumstances.
Understanding Your Rights in Child Support Agreements
Navigating child support arrangements can be challenging, particularly when trying to understand your rights and obligations. It is essential to know that both parents have responsibilities in the financial support of their children. Our experienced attorneys at Skillern Firm are here to clarify your rights and help you advocate for a fair child support agreement that aligns with your child's best interests.
Key aspects of your rights include:
- Right to fair consideration: Ensure that all aspects of your financial situation are accurately represented in determining support obligations.
- Right to modifications: As circumstances change, you may have the ability to request a modification of the child support order. Understanding the process is crucial.
- Right to involvement in the process: You have the right to be actively involved in negotiations and decisions regarding child support.
- Right to court representation: Our team can represent you in court to advocate for your interests and pursue a fair arrangement.
- Right to request accounting: As a parent, you can request transparency regarding how child support funds are used, ensuring that support directly benefits your child.
Our commitment at Skillern Firm is to empower you with the information and support you need to navigate child support discussions confidently. With our guidance and personalized approach, you can focus on what truly matters—your child's well-being.
What To Expect In A Houston Child Support Case
When you begin a child support case in Houston, it usually starts with one parent filing a petition in the appropriate Harris County or surrounding county family court. After the petition is filed, the other parent is formally served and given a chance to respond. Many cases then move into a period of information gathering, where each side exchanges financial documents so everyone, including the judge, has a clear picture of income, expenses, and the child’s needs.
From there, most Houston child support matters will involve at least one setting in front of an associate judge, and often the court will encourage parents to resolve issues through negotiation or mediation before a contested hearing. If you and the other parent can reach an agreement that follows Texas guidelines and serves your child’s best interests, the court can approve it without a lengthy trial. When an agreement is not possible, the judge will hear testimony, review evidence, and then issue an order that becomes legally binding on both parents.
Throughout this process, we help you prepare for each step so that you know what is coming next and what decisions you may be asked to make. We walk through the types of questions you might be asked in court, explain the possible range of outcomes based on your facts, and discuss how a child support order will work day to day once it is in place. Our goal is to reduce surprises so you can focus on your child rather than worrying about procedure.
Why Choosing the Right Child Support Attorney in Houston Matters
Navigating the complexities of child support can be daunting, which is why having the right legal representation is crucial. At Skillern Firm Divorce and Child Custody Lawyers, we understand that each family's situation is unique. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring that your child's best interests are always put first.
When you choose our firm, you gain access to:
- Tailored legal strategies: We take the time to understand your specific circumstances and develop a strategy that aligns with your family’s needs.
- Empathetic support: We recognize the emotional weight of child support issues. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance and reassurance during this challenging time.
- Transparent communication: We keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring you understand your options and the potential outcomes of your case.
- Strong negotiation skills: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who strive for fair agreements that work for both parties, often minimizing the need for lengthy court battles.
- Ongoing support: Even after your child support agreement is established, we are here for you if you experience changes in circumstances that may require modifications.
Do not leave your family’s future to chance. Contact Skillern Firm today for a consultation, and let us help guide you through the child support process with confidence and care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Child Support Usually Last in Texas?
In most situations, child support in Texas continues until a child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever happens later. There are exceptions when a child has a significant physical or mental disability and needs ongoing care, in which case support may be ordered for a longer period. Orders can also end early if a child becomes emancipated through marriage or active military service.
Can Child Support Be Ordered If We Were Never Married?
Yes, child support can be ordered regardless of whether you and the other parent were ever married. Before support is set, the court will generally make sure that legal parentage is established, either through an acknowledgment of paternity or through genetic testing if needed. Once parentage is confirmed, the same Texas guidelines for calculating child support apply.
What Happens If a Parent Falls Behind on Child Support Payments?
When a parent falls behind on child support, the unpaid amounts are called arrears and do not disappear over time. The court can enforce payment through several tools, including income withholding, liens on certain property, and, in serious cases, contempt proceedings. If you are struggling to keep up with payments because your circumstances have changed, seeking a modification through the court is usually better than letting arrears build up.
Schedule a consultation with a Houston child support lawyer today by calling (832) 688-6606 or contacting us online.
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“Skillern Firm was an outstanding law firm that guided me through my divorce petition from start to finish. Amber, my attorney, was a pleasure to work with. I truly appreciate her dedication and the effort she put into ensuring the process went as smoothly as possible.”- Luna O.
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“I had a divorce case involving a minor child, and choosing this law firm was the best decision I could have made. Attorney Amber Skillern was outstanding — professional, efficient, and incredibly supportive. Everything was handled quickly and precisely. She explained every step clearly and made a stressful situation feel manageable.”- Olena L.
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“Matt's legal expertise and strategic approach were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to listen to my concerns, addressing each one with patience and clarity. His ability to navigate the complexities of family law while being completely present and compassionate was truly remarkable. I felt supported every step of the way, which made a challenging time in my life much more manageable.”- Milana T.
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