Guiding You Through The Child Support Process
Children need their parents, and divorce doesn’t change that. We help parents seeking child support as well as parents expecting to pay child support.
If you expect to receive child support, we know just how important this support is. Whatever your circumstances, our attorneys will do our best to help you.
We Know That You Are More Than Just A Paycheck
We care about the well-being of your children. Our San Antonio child support lawyers are also mothers and fathers. Personally and professionally, we know how stressful it is to be unsure of how you will provide for your child.
Establishing A Child Support Agreement That Will Help Nurture Your Child
In Texas, the amount of child support is determined by a formula that takes into account factors like the number of children, and employment and income information from both parents.
At The Law Office of Lisa A. Vance, P.C., we will help you understand how state laws will apply to you. We will work to make sure that you are able to establish a child support agreement that will sustain a happy and healthy way of life for your child, which may include modifying existing child support agreements.
Your Child Support Questions, Answered
Below, you’ll find answers to questions you may be asking about Texas child support laws:
What are the methods for calculating child support in Texas?
Texas child support orders are initially calculated using a specific formula set forth in state guidelines. The primary method involves taking a percentage of the noncustodial parent’s net income, which includes wages, salary, commissions and other earnings. Certain deductions, such as taxes and health insurance premiums, are subtracted from the gross income to determine the net income.
The percentage of net income to be paid varies based on the number of children needing support. For instance, one child would equate to about 20% of the noncustodial parent’s net income. Obligations increase by 5% for each additional child.
If your net income is considered low (less than $1,000 per month), following the child support guidelines above can create a serious hardship. That’s why, starting in 2021, Texas enacted reduced child support guidelines for low-income noncustodial parents. Under this adjusted calculation, support obligations for the first child start at 15% of net income and increase 5% for each additional child.
What happens to child support if either parent moves to another state or country?
If either parent moves to another state or country, the child support order remains in effect. Texas follows the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), which ensures that child support orders are enforceable across state and international borders. If you or the other parent relocates, it is crucial to inform the court and update your contact information.
The Texas Office of the Attorney General can help facilitate the enforcement of child support orders in other jurisdictions. It is important for the noncustodial parent to continue making payments as ordered, both to ensure that kids have the resources they need and to avoid legal consequences.
How does remarriage or having additional children affect child support?
Remarriage of either spouse will generally not have an impact on child support awards because a new spouse’s income is not considered when calculating child support in Texas.
If the obligor parent (the one paying child support) has additional children in their new relationship, this can impact support obligations. The court may slightly reduce the percentage of income allocated for child support to account for new dependents. This adjustment ensures that all children receive support.
It’s important to note that this change would not be automatic. The obligor parent would need to seek a modification by petitioning the court.
Contact The Law Office Of Lisa A. Vance, P.C.
Our office is near downtown, close to Pearl Brewery and the San Antonio Museum of Art. Spanish translation services are available upon request.
Call 210-265-6277 now to schedule a consultation with attorney Lisa A. Vance in San Antonio, Texas. Our divorce lawyers offer compassionate, experienced advice on family law issues, including custody, child support, alimony and divorce. We also handle estate planning, probate, elder law issues and animal welfare law. Spanish translation services are available upon request.
CONTACT OUR SAN ANTONIO CHILD CUSTODY LAWYERS SERVING NEW BRAUNFELS AND BEYOND TODAY