Child Support Attorney in Friendswood, TX
A divorce can often place the financial stability of a child in jeopardy. To provide a reliable stream of financial support, the courts often order one parent to pay child support to the parent who has heavier child-rearing responsibilities. To ensure a fair process, you can work with a Friendswood child support lawyer to represent you in court. A child support lawyer can ensure that the order complies with state guidelines and supports the best interests of your child.
A Trusted Child Support Law Legal Team Serving Friendswood
When parents in Friendswood need help navigating a child support case, they know to trust the Friendswood family law attorneys at The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates. Our firm was founded by a native Texan who continues to call the Houston/Galveston area home. Unlike other law firms that practice family law, our legal team approaches every case with a fresh perspective that focuses on the unique needs and goals of our clients.
We bring decades of experience handling child support matters in Texas family courts and stay current with state guidelines, court procedures, and local trends to ensure every case is managed with precision. Rely on our firm for honest guidance, legal clarity, and a deep commitment to protecting your parental rights.
Understanding Child Support in Friendswood
Child support plays a crucial role in ensuring children receive the financial support they need after a separation or divorce. In Texas, most payments are determined using income-based guidelines and are typically paid through wage withholding.
According to data from the Attorney General’s office, wage withholding accounts for 80% of all child support payments statewide. As of the year ending August 2022, Texas collected over $3.9 billion in child support. With Texas’s 2022 divorce rate at 1.9 per 1,000 residents, child support remains a common legal issue for local families.
Friendswood residents in neighborhoods like Eagle Lakes, Forest of Friendswood, or West Ranch can expect their cases to be handled through the Galveston County Family Court or Harris County 310th District Court, depending on their jurisdiction.
Factors the Courts Consider When Setting Child Support
Child support serves many purposes. Beyond more fairly dividing the financial burden of child-rearing between parents, it provides a consistent and reliable source of support for the child’s well-being that ensures they have access to the basics. When determining how much support is needed for an individual case, the courts consider a wide range of factors, including both parents’ wages, investments, benefits, ability to contribute, and other factors.
One area the courts also consider is the time the child will spend with each parent. When one parent takes on more child-rearing responsibilities, the courts may consider that disparity when ordering the other parent to pay financial support.
The child’s needs are another important consideration, and the courts may consider the cost of healthcare, daycare, education, special medical or developmental needs, and other factors.
Modifying Child Support
The courts understand that there are times when a court order no longer reflects the realities of the parents’ circumstances and the needs of the child. Whether the child requires additional financial support or the obligor is no longer able to pay the court-ordered amount, either parent has the right to go back to court to modify the child support order.
For the courts to consider modifying an order, they will want to see that there has been a significant change in circumstances that affects either party or the child. The change should be ongoing and not temporary.
One example of a change in circumstances that could justify a modification would be one parent being disabled or seriously ill. If they are unable to pay the court-ordered child support, a judge may consider lowering the parent’s support obligations. Once a judge signs the modified child support agreement, both parents are required to abide by the terms of the agreement just as they did the original order.
Enforcement of Child Support Orders
Once a court order is signed by a judge, it is enforceable through that court. If one parent is ordered to pay child support and fails to do so, the courts may take steps to enforce the court order. Enforcements do not happen automatically. The parent who receives child support must take action by working with an attorney to file a motion for enforcement. Then, the other party must be notified of the enforcement and allowed to respond.
Once a hearing has been set, both sides can gather evidence to support their arguments. If the obligor pays the arrears, the courts may see that as an appropriate remedy.
During the enforcement hearing, both parties can present evidence and make arguments before a judge makes a final decision. If the obligor is found to be in arrears, the courts can take steps to enforce the child support order by ordering wage garnishments or even holding the respondent in jail as punishment for falling behind on child support.
Why You Should Hire a Child Support Lawyer in Friendswood, TX?
Going to family court without an attorney could be a costly mistake, especially if you are involved in a child support case. A child support attorney understands Friendswood child support laws and how to achieve your goals in court. If you are seeking fair child support from the other parent, your attorney can gather evidence to support your case and ensure that your request complies with state guidelines.
Once you hire a child support lawyer, they can set a court hearing to establish child support. If you are going through a divorce in Friendswood, they can ensure that the final divorce decree includes an order for your ex to financially support your child so they can have the resources they need to meet their basic necessities.
Parents who have concerns about being unfairly ordered to pay child support or ordered to pay more than they should under state guidelines can rely on a child support attorney to give the courts an accurate assessment of their ability to pay and what resources their child needs to meet their basic needs.
FAQs About Friendswood Child Support
How Is Child Support Calculated in Friendswood, Texas?
Child support in Friendswood is calculated based on Texas guidelines. The guidelines base payments on the paying parent’s income and the number of children. Courts may also consider medical needs, educational expenses, and other factors. If one parent has significant wealth or financial assets, the court can deviate from standard guidelines. Accurate financial disclosures by both parties are critical for ensuring a fair order.
Can a Parent Request a Modification to a Child Support Order?
Yes, a parent can request a modification to a child support order if there’s been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income decrease or increase, or shift in custody. The changes need to be ongoing and not short-term. The court can review the facts of the case to determine if an adjustment is justified. The petitioning party must notify the other parent about the request for modification.
What Happens if Someone Falls Behind on Child Support Payments?
If someone falls behind on child support, they could face serious legal consequences. Texas courts may impose wage garnishment, driver’s license suspension, or contempt proceedings to compel the paying party to comply with the court order. Past-due payments do not disappear and can accumulate interest in Texas. If there is a genuine financial hardship, the party that is unable to pay can request a formal modification.
Does Shared Custody Affect the Amount of Child Support Owed?
Shared custody can influence the amount of child support involved in a custody case, but it doesn’t always eliminate the obligation held by one party. Texas courts look at income levels, how much time each parent spends with the child, and who covers specific expenses. In high-income cases, support may be adjusted for fairness. Judges aim to ensure the child’s needs are met in both households.
Can a High-Income Parent Be Ordered To Pay More Child Support?
Yes, a high-income parent can be ordered to pay more child support than is standard if additional funds are necessary to meet the child’s needs. This includes private school, extracurricular activities, or medical care, among other considerations. Judges consider the child’s lifestyle, expenses, and the best interests of the child. Judges have discretion to make decisions within given state guidelines.
Protect Your Rights and Secure a Fair Child Support Outcome in Friendswood
Child support disputes can have lasting effects on your child’s well-being and your financial future. Whether you’re seeking fair support, enforcing an order, or responding to an enforcement, having skilled legal counsel can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case.
At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, family law matters are handled by attorney Amber Spurlock, a former U.S. Air Force JAG and graduate of South Texas College of Law Houston. Her background brings discipline and insight to every case she handles. Contact our office to learn how we can help protect your interests and pursue a fair outcome in your Friendswood child support case.