Child Support Attorney in Houston, TX
Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC Places Your Child's Best Interests at the Forefront
Child support is a set monthly payment that is paid by a non-custodial spouse to a custodial spouse to provide for the regular expenses of the children from a marriage. This allows a non-custodial spouse to fulfill his or her parental duties.
In Texas, physical custody always determines who will pay child support. The parent who has physical custody will always be the recipient parent and the parent who does not have physical custody of the kids (regardless of whether or not he or she has legal custody) will pay the child support if ordered by the court.
Calculating Child Support in Texas
The courts calculate child support payments based on a percentage of the non-custodial parent's income. Your child support lawyer can estimate how much the state will expect you to pay in minimum child support by doing a simple calculation.
The court will evaluate all wages, salary, commissions, tips, overtime and bonuses as income for calculation purposes. This also includes any government benefits, severance pay or retirement benefits. The courts will also factor in alimony, gifts, prizes, and other costs. The court will then affix a percentage which will be the amount you are required to pay monthly for child support.
- For one child, the paying spouse is required to pay 20% of net resources monthly
- For two children, 25% is required
- For three children, 30% is required
- For four children, 35% is required
- Five children and more always require at least 40%
- Why Ignoring Child Support Obligations is a Bad Idea in Texas
- Can I Sue My Ex for Retroactive or Back Child Support in Texas?
- Child Support Modification in Texas (Part 1)
Need to Contest a Child Support Order?
Parents are permitted to pay more in child support if they wish to do so. The percentages listed above simply signify the minimum amount they can pay. Spouses have the liberty to challenge the amount (either seeking less or more) in court. In order to effectively argue this point, you will want a professional attorney focused on child support and advocating for your child's best interests to represent you and develop a legally recognized argument on your behalf.
Whether you are seeking support or you are resisting it, The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC can help. Don't hesitate to contact a Houston child support lawyer today for more information. They are committed to providing high-quality service for Texas couples looking to divorce.
