Child Support Questions & Issues
Dallas Fort Worth Divorce Attorney David Kohm Can Assist You with All Your Child Support Issues
Child Support is a major concern for newly divorced parents who are trying to keep their job, keep their family together, and meet all their financial obligations. The Arlington TX Divorce Law Offices of David Kohm knows even after child custody is resolved the ensuing child support process can be very complicated and confusing.
Please review the following information to help you learn more about child support in Texas:
The child support law in Texas is not contingent upon which parent has custody of the children; in fact, the Texas Family Code mostly bases its decision on two things: the number of children who need support and the amount of monthly income. A disgruntled ex-spouse who is frustrated that the custodial parent is withholding visitation cannot stop child support payments out of retribution, either. At its core, child support in Texas is intended to protect the rights and needs of the children over the desires of the parents.
In Texas, the State Attorney General oversees a Child Support Division that is committed to enforcing the laws surrounding child support in Texas. Not only does the Attorney General's Office help establish paternity and enforce child support orders, but it also works to locate absent parents and collect delinquent child support payments.
Child support is based on the paying parent's net income and other resources, as follows:
• 20% of net resources for one child
• 25% of net resources for two children
• 30% of net resources for three children
• 35% of net resources for four children
• 40% of net resources for five children
If you go to this link it will take you to a calculator that will help you in determining the monthly amount that should be paid. https://www.oag.state.tx.us/cs/calculator/
Basic essentials included in the child support calculations are things like shelter, food, clothing and medical coverage. Several expenses contribute to these costs such as mortgage or rent, utilities, doctor visits, meals and school supplies. A child support order can be modified if there has been a change in circumstances, such as a big increase or decrease in the paying parent's income or the child’s reaching the legal age of majority.
In addition to ensuring that the child’s needs are financially taken care of, the Court shall also order either of the parties to provide health insurance to the child. The court will review other factors as to who shall bear the cost of health insurance for the child. Cost, quality of health coverage, inquire whether coverage is available at a reasonable cost through one of the parents employers or membership in a union, trade association or other organization, and inquire whether coverage is available through another source at a reasonable cost.
The law in Texas with respect to domestic litigation is complex and the court system can be difficult to maneuver. This information is only a brief review of the laws relating to child support and is not meant as a substitute for the advice of counsel. It is important to consult a qualified family law attorney before taking any action. The Law Offices of David Kohm is experienced in assisting you in all child support matters and ready to help you get the financial support you need.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer. For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author.