Austin Child Support Lawyer

What is Child Support?

Child support is a financial obligation that a non-custodial parent is required to pay to the custodial parent to assist with the costs associated with raising a child. These payments ensure that the child's basic needs are met, including housing, food, clothing, education, and medical care. At Diggs & Sadler, our experienced Austin child support lawyers are dedicated to helping parents navigate the complexities of child support laws in Texas, ensuring that their children's well-being remains the top priority.

Call (512) 548-8355 or contact us online today to request an initial consultation with our team.

How to Calculate Child Support in Texas

In Texas, child support is determined using statutory guidelines outlined in the Texas Family Code. The guidelines consider the non-custodial parent's net resources, which include all income sources minus allowable deductions such as taxes, social security, and health insurance premiums.

The standard calculation method is as follows:

• 1 child: 20% of the non-custodial parent’s net income
• 2 children: 25% of the non-custodial parent’s net income
• 3 children: 30% of the non-custodial parent’s net income
• 4 children: 35% of the non-custodial parent’s net income
• 5 or more children: 40% of the non-custodial parent’s net income

These percentages may vary based on the specifics of the case, such as additional needs of the child or shared custody arrangements.

What are the Factors When Deciding Child Support?

Several factors can influence the determination of child support in Texas. While the statutory guidelines provide a starting point, the court may consider additional circumstances to arrive at a fair support amount. Key factors include:

• Income of both parents: The court examines the gross income of both parents to ensure an equitable distribution of financial responsibility.
• Child's needs: Special needs, educational expenses, and healthcare costs can impact the support amount.
• Custody arrangements: The amount of time the child spends with each parent can affect the support calculation.
• Other children: If the non-custodial parent has other children to support, the court may adjust the payment amount accordingly.

At Diggs & Sadler, our Austin child support lawyers will help you present a comprehensive case that reflects all relevant factors, advocating for a support arrangement that serves the best interest of your child.

Modifying Child Support Orders

Life circumstances can change, necessitating a modification of the child support order. Common reasons for seeking a modification include:

• Change in income: Significant increase or decrease in either parent's income.
• Change in child's needs: Medical emergencies or changes in educational requirements.
• Custody changes: Alterations in the custody arrangement that impact the financial responsibilities of each parent.

To modify a child support order in Texas, you must file a petition with the court and demonstrate that a significant change in circumstances has occurred. The experienced team at Diggs & Sadler can assist you in navigating this process, ensuring that any modifications align with legal standards and the best interests of your child.

Enforcing Child Support Orders

When a parent fails to meet their child support obligations, it can create financial strain for the custodial parent and negatively affect the child's well-being. Enforcement of child support orders is a critical aspect of ensuring compliance. Methods of enforcement include:

• Wage garnishment: Directly withholding child support payments from the non-custodial parent's paycheck.
• Contempt of court: Legal action that may result in fines or jail time for non-compliance.
• Suspension of licenses: Revocation of the non-custodial parent's driver's or professional licenses.

Our Austin child support lawyers at Diggs & Sadler are committed to helping you enforce child support orders, ensuring that your child receives the financial support they are entitled to.

Why Choose Diggs & Sadler?

At Diggs & Sadler, we understand that child support matters can be emotionally charged and complex. Our dedicated team brings years of experience and a deep understanding of Texas family law to every case we handle. We pride ourselves on providing compassionate, personalized legal services that prioritize the best interests of your child.

We offer:

• Comprehensive legal advice: From initial consultations to court representation, our lawyers guide you every step of the way.
• Personalized solutions: We tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of your family situation.
• Commitment to results: Our goal is to secure a fair and sustainable child support arrangement that benefits your child.

Contact us today at (512) 548-8355 to discuss your case with our Austin child support lawyers.