SUGAR LAND CHILD SUPPORT LAWYER

EXPERIENCED REPRESENTATION FOR CHILD SUPPORT CASES IN FORT BEND, HARRIS & BRAZORIA COUNTIES 

At Tracton Law Firm, PLLC, we specialize in family law matters, including child support cases. You've come to the right place if you need a Sugar Land child support lawyer. Our team is dedicated to providing expert guidance and representation to clients navigating the complexities of child support in Texas. Whether you're seeking child support or facing child support-related challenges, we are here to help you understand Texas child support laws, how child support is calculated, and when child support obligations end. 

Call Tracton Law Firm, PLLC today at (281) 962-7738 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our child support attorney in Sugar Land!

Understanding Texas Child Support Laws 

Child support laws in Texas ensure that children receive the financial support they need, even if their parents are no longer together. Understanding these laws is crucial for both custodial and non-custodial parents. In Texas, child support is determined based on the non-custodial parent's income and the number of children requiring support.

Child support orders typically address the following financial responsibilities:

• Basic Child Support covers essential expenses such as food, clothing, and shelter.
• Medical Support: This includes health insurance coverage for the child and payment for medical expenses not covered by insurance.
• Childcare Costs: If applicable, the court may require the non-custodial parent to contribute to childcare expenses.
• Educational Expenses: Parents may be required to share the cost of a child's educational needs, including tuition and extracurricular activities.
• Additional Expenses: Courts can also address other expenses that are in the child's best interest.

Our experienced Sugar Land child support lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of Texas child support laws. Whether you need to establish a child support order or modify an existing one, we provide the legal support and guidance you need.

Calculating Child Support Payments in Texas

Child support calculations in Texas are primarily based on the non-custodial parent's income. The state has guidelines that determine the percentage of income allocated to child support. Here are some key points regarding the calculation:

• Income Calculation: The court will consider the non-custodial parent's income, which includes wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, and other sources of income.
• Percentage Guidelines: The income allocated to child support depends on the number of children. For one child, 20% of the non-custodial parent's income increases with each additional child.
• Child Support Cap: Texas law sets a cap on the maximum amount of income that can be used to calculate child support. This cap can change annually, so staying updated on the current figures is essential.
• Deviation Factors: In some cases, the court may deviate from the standard guidelines if certain circumstances warrant it. Factors such as the child's medical needs or the non-custodial parent's other financial obligations may be considered.
• Shared Custody: If the non-custodial parent has possession of the child for a substantial amount of time, the child support calculation can be adjusted accordingly.

Our skilled Sugar Land child support attorneys can help you navigate the child support calculation process, ensuring your child receives the financial support they need while protecting your rights and interests.

When Does Child Support End in Texas?

Child support obligations typically continue until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. However, there are exceptions to this general rule:

• Emancipation: Child support may end if the child becomes emancipated before turning 18, meaning they are legally considered an adult.
• Disabilities: If the child has a severe disability, child support may continue indefinitely as long as they remain dependent on their parents.
• Educational Support: Child support can extend beyond high school if the child is enrolled in college or vocational school and remains financially dependent on the parents.
• Agreement: Parents can also agree to extend child support beyond the typical termination age.

Can Child Support Be Modified?

Yes, child support orders can be modified in Texas, but only under certain circumstances. For a modification to be considered, there generally must be a significant change in the situation of either parent or the child. A common reason for modification is a change in income, such as a job loss, promotion, or demotion. If the paying parent’s financial situation improves significantly, the receiving parent may seek an increase in support. Conversely, if the paying parent experiences a reduction in income, they may request a decrease in their obligation.

Changes in a child’s needs can also justify a modification. For example, if a child develops a medical condition that requires additional financial support or if the child’s educational needs increase, the court may adjust the support order accordingly. Additionally, a modification may be warranted if custody or visitation arrangements change. If the child moves in with the paying parent or the visitation schedule changes substantially, the amount of child support may need to be reassessed.

It’s important to note that simply agreeing on new terms with the other parent is not enough. Any modifications to child support must be approved by the court to be legally binding. Until the court grants a modification, the current order remains in effect, and failing to comply with it can lead to legal consequences, including wage garnishment or even jail time.

For parents seeking a child support modification, it’s critical to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can assess the circumstances and guide them through the legal process. Modifications can be complex, and having the right legal support can help ensure that the changes are handled properly and fairly.

CONTACT OUR SUGAR LAND CHILD SUPPORT ATTORNEY TODAY  

Navigating child support matters can be legally complex and emotionally challenging. At Tracton Law Firm, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping parents in Sugar Land and surrounding areas understand and manage child support in Texas. Our experienced child support lawyers are dedicated to providing the guidance and representation you need to secure your child's financial future while protecting your rights. 

Contact Tracton Law Firm, PLLC, by calling (281) 962-7738 today to schedule a consultation with our child support lawyer in Sugar Land!