When parents separate, the added stress of determining financial responsibilities can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to clarify who will cover the costs associated with raising your children, as this dynamic changes when living apart.
Child support is essential for making sure your child's needs are met. In most divorce or parental separation cases, child support obligations are not optional. This is done to make sure the child's best interests and well-being are supported during and after the parent's divorce or separation.
At the Law Office of Amber M. Rodriguez, PLLC, Attorney Amber M. Rodriguez is committed to helping families understand child support arrangements to help them protect their rights and those of their children. Located in Harlingen, Texas, our firm serves clients in the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
How Is Child Support Determined in Texas?
Child support is designed to address the financial needs of a child after their parents decide to live separately. Typically, this arrangement involves monthly payments that contribute to the various expenses associated with raising a child.
However, the specifics can vary based on individual circumstances. Child support amounts are typically calculated by considering multiple factors, including:
Net income: The monthly income of both parents
Monthly expenses: Rent, mortgage payments, and other financial obligations
Number of children: The total number of children covered under the support order
Health insurance costs: Coverage costs for each parent
Daycare expenses: Any costs related to childcare
Cost of living: Local expenses that can impact child support needs
While child support guidelines exist to help establish reasonable payment amounts, it's important to understand that every family’s situation is unique. An experienced child support attorney can help make sure your child support order reflects your family's specific financial needs.
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What Happens if Child Support Orders Are Not Followed?
Child support issues often arise when one party fails to adhere to a court-ordered obligation. Failure to pay court-ordered child support may lead to legal consequences, including wage garnishment, liens on property, suspension of licenses, or even jail time.
At the Law Office of Amber M. Rodriguez, PLLC, we can help you through the process and take the necessary steps to rectify issues related to child support payments. The Texas Attorney General's Child Support Division can also help with enforcing payments.
How Can Our Firm Help?
With her extensive knowledge of Texas family law, our attorney Amber M. Rodriguez is dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for your family’s financial security. We can help you with various child support-related issues, including:
Establishing child support orders
Modifying existing child support arrangements
Addressing issues related to tax implications
Ensuring compliance with court orders
If you're facing a child support arrangement or need help with an existing child support order, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
Child Support FAQ
Can child support be modified?
Yes, child support arrangements can be modified if there are significant changes in the circumstances of the family. This could include a change in the income of either parent, changes in the child's needs, or if three years have passed since the last order and the support amount differs by either 20% or $100 from the current guidelines.
How long does child support last in Texas?
Typically, child support in Texas continues until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. However, exceptions exist for children with disabilities who may require extended support beyond these general time frames.
Do child support arrangements include college expenses?
Child support arrangements in Texas don't automatically cover college expenses. However, parents can agree to extend support for post-secondary education or address it within their custody agreement.
Child Support Attorney in Harlingen, Texas
If you are facing challenges regarding child support in Texas, our firm is here to help. By using a compassionate and personalized approach, we can help you understand and address your child support concerns. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We serve clients in Harlingen, Texas, and the surrounding areas.