Trusted Child Support Lawyer in Sherman, TX
Guiding You Through Child Support Challenges with Compassion
Every parent only wants what’s best for their children. However, during situations like divorce and legal separation, things can get hectic.
Dedicated Support for Your Child's Future
Navigating child support issues can be stressful and complicated, especially when it comes to protecting your child’s best interests. The attorneys at The Law Office of John H. Nix understands the emotional and financial stakes involved. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, separation, or modification of an existing order, having an experienced child support lawyer on your side is essential.
helping you in family court
Family matters & domestic relations
We Make Sure You Have the Facts
In Texas, child support guidelines are income-based and laid out in Chapter 154 of the Texas Family Code. We can help determine where you fit within these guidelines.
For example, if a client makes $7,500 or less per month, he or she must pay 20% of their resources for one child, 25% for two children, 30% for three children and so on.
Under certain rare occasions, the courts may deviate from standard guidelines, and we are here to help you with that situation, too, should it arise.
If you are a Texoma parent who is struggling with child support questions, it is of utmost importance to consult a child support expert to make sure your children are financially taken care of.
Beyond Neogitations
If negotiations aren’t possible, Mr. Nix can help prepare a strong argument for your litigation case.
The website for the Attorney General of Texas offers a Monthly Child Support Calculator. This calculator provides an estimate for a single source of income. The actual amount set or approved by the court may differ.
Understanding Child Support Laws in Texas
In Texas, child support is governed by Chapter 154 of the Texas Family Code. These guidelines outline how payments are determined, based primarily on the income of the noncustodial parent. For instance, if a parent earns $7,500 or less per month, they are generally required to pay 20% of their income for one child, 25% for two children, and so on.
However, deviations from these guidelines are possible under certain circumstances. For example, if the child has special needs or if there’s an unusual financial situation, the court may order a different amount. It’s important to consult with a child support lawyer who is familiar with these nuances. The Texas Family Code also allows for changes in child support through a legal process if significant life changes occur. Whether you are setting up an initial child support agreement or seeking a modification, having a knowledgeable attorney on your side ensures that your child’s rights are protected.
The Child Support Process
The process of establishing child support begins with determining the noncustodial parent’s financial obligation. Texas uses an income-based formula, but the actual payment can vary depending on factors such as the parent’s other financial responsibilities, the child’s healthcare needs, and custodial arrangements.
Once an agreement is reached, either through negotiation or court intervention, the amount is legally enforceable. This means that if the noncustodial parent fails to pay, they could face penalties such as wage garnishment, suspension of licenses, and even jail time. The Law Office of John H. Nix works to ensure that the proper steps are followed during this process, so your child receives the financial support they need without delay.
Penalties for Non-Payment and Legal Guidelines
Failure to pay child support has serious legal consequences in Texas. According to Texas law, unpaid child support can accrue with a 6% annual interest rate. This means that the longer payments are missed, the more debt accumulates. Additionally, the court may take a variety of actions to enforce payments, including:
- Wage garnishment
- Suspension of driver’s, hunting, or fishing licenses
- Denial of passport applications
- Seizure of tax refunds or other government benefits
- Jail time or probation for contempt of court
Unpaid child support not only affects the financial well-being of the child but can also have lasting legal and financial impacts on the parent responsible. If you are struggling with late payments or face enforcement actions, contacting a child support attorney immediately is crucial.
Modifying Child Support
The court-ordered amount can only be changed by a court hearing or a Child Support Review Process (CSRP). If you stop making payments, the amount you owe will continue to grow. Unpaid child support has a 6% interest rate in Texas, which means you will owe more money if you stop or pay less than your payment amount. If your circumstances have changed, your order may be eligible for review and modification if one (or more) of the following is true:
- The order was established/last modified more than three years ago.
- The monthly amount of the child support order differs by either (a) 20% or (b) $100 from the amount that would be awarded, according to child support guidelines.
OR
A material and substantial change in circumstances has occurred since the child support order was last set. In relation to receiving a modification, this phrase applies to one of these situations:
- The noncustodial parent’s income has increased or decreased
- The noncustodial parent is legally responsible for additional children
- The child’s (or children’s) medical insurance coverage has changed.
OR
The child (or children) are now living with a different parent.
Enforcing Child Support
When a parent doesn’t pay child support, there can be many consequences for both the parent and child.
Emotional and financial support by both parents creates a consistency in the family unit. When child support payments aren’t made, many actions can be taken to enforce the court order. These can include court action, license suspension (drivers, hunting, fishing, etc.), credit reporting, liens, credit bureau reporting, civl or criminal contempt, passport denial, and more.
It is a very real possibility for a parent to be placed on probation or incarcerated due to unpaid child support.
Child Support Law in Texas
Texas has specific guidelines that set it apart from other states when it comes to child support. The income of the noncustodial parent plays a major role in calculating payments, but the court also considers other factors such as:
- The number of children needing support
- The child’s health insurance coverage
- Childcare expenses and education needs
- The custodial parent’s financial situation
Additionally, in Texas, child support orders can only be modified if certain criteria are met. These include significant changes in the parent’s financial circumstances or changes in the child’s living arrangements. A review can also occur if more than three years have passed since the original order was set and the current amount differs by at least 20% or $100 from the guideline amount. It’s important to work with Texas child support lawyers who know the ins and outs of these regulations and can guide you through the process.
How The Law Office of John H. Nix Can Help
At The Law Office of John H. Nix, they provide personalized legal support to ensure your child receives the financial assistance they deserve. With decades of experience handling family law cases, their team understands the complexities of child support cases. Their bilingual attorneys are dedicated to making sure you understand your rights and options throughout the legal process.
They can assist with:
- Initial child support agreements
- Child support modifications
- Enforcement of child support orders
- Court representation for complex cases
- Calculating payments based on income and special circumstances
Whether you’re facing difficulties with payment enforcement, negotiating a new agreement, or seeking modification due to changing financial conditions, their lawyers for child support are here to help. They will ensure you have the facts and provide strong advocacy, no matter what challenges arise.
Contact The Law Office of John H. Nix Today
If you’re in Sherman, TX, and need guidance on child support issues, the team at The Law Office of John H. Nix is ready to assist. They work tirelessly to protect your child’s best interests, ensuring they receive the financial support they deserve. Don’t wait—reach out to their experienced child support attorneys today.
Contact The Law Office of John H. Nix at (903) 868-2600 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your child’s future.