Child Support Attorney In Sherman, Texas
Texas law provides a set of statutory guidelines to assist with the calculation of child support when a child’s parents are divorcing or do not live together. These guidelines consider a number of factors, including the income levels of both parents and the number of children needing support. The court also has the authority to order child support outside of the guidelines in high net worth and certain other situations.
These proceedings can become quite complex, and the assistance of an experienced attorney can be invaluable. At Jeremy J. Poet Law Firm, PLLC, we represent clients in family law matters involving the establishment and enforcement of child support matters in Sherman. Whether you are the parent who is seeking support or the one who will likely be required to pay it, we work hard to ensure our clients receive the most favorable child support order possible.
Full Disclosure Of Income In Child Support Cases
While the guidelines provide a good way to calculate how much support should be paid in a given situation, the outcome can only be as good as the accuracy of the income data entered into them. When you choose our firm, we do everything in our power to ensure we have a complete financial picture before any calculation is performed.
We conduct a thorough review of both parents’ incomes at the outset of each proceeding. If there is any reason to believe the other parent has not made a full disclosure of his or her income, we will enlist the help of forensic accountants and other experts who can help us identify all income that should be considered for child support purposes.
How Is Child Support In Texas Calculated?
Texas courts use a straightforward percentage-based formula to set the child support amounts. This system applies a specific percentage to the paying parent’s net monthly income based on the number of children requiring support:
- 20% of net monthly income for one child
- 25% for two children
- 30% for three children
- 40% for four or five children
- At least 40% for six or more children
Courts apply these percentages to the obligor’s net monthly income after deducting taxes and other allowable expenses. However, Texas law sets caps on the maximum amount, and judges may order different amounts in high-income cases or when unusual circumstances exist.
Who Is Required To Pay Child Support?
The noncustodial parent typically pays child support in Texas. Courts generally require the parent with less possession time to make monthly payments to the primary custodial parent. Both parents have a legal duty to support their children financially, but the court calculates each parent’s obligation differently based on custody arrangements and income levels.
Can Child Support Be Modified In Texas?
Yes, courts can modify child support orders when parents experience material and substantial changes in circumstances. Texas law allows modifications every three years or when the monthly amount changes by at least 20% or $100. Common reasons for modification include:
- Job loss or significant income reduction
- Substantial income increases
- Changes in custody arrangements
- Medical needs or disability
Parents must file a petition with the court to request modifications. We help clients navigate this process to ensure fair adjustments.
Is Child Support Still Required In 50/50 Custody?
Child support often remains necessary even when parents share equal custody time. Courts consider the income difference between both parents rather than just the time each parent spends with the children. The higher earning parent typically pays some support to the other parent to help balance the financial responsibility for the children’s needs.
At Jeremy J. Poet Law Firm, PLLC, we help parents understand how these calculations affect their specific situations and work to achieve fair support arrangements.
Discuss Your Child Support Concerns With A Lawyer
We invite you to schedule a free initial consultation regarding your child support concerns. Contact our North Texas office today. You can reach our Sherman office by calling us at 903-357-5269 or via email by completing the form below.