Child Support Lawyer in Conroe, TX

Navigating Texas Child Support Laws for Families in Montgomery, Harris, Walker & Grimes Counties

Child custody and child support are independent issues. While the court considers personal attributes like maturity and responsibility in determining child custody, it renders decisions regarding child support based almost entirely on financial calculations and the Texas child support guidelines.

Still, parties to a divorce can easily make mistakes in presenting income information and estimating expenses to a court. These mistakes can prove costly in your case. Bradford L. Atkinson is experienced and focused when it comes to getting your child support order right the first time. Clients also rely on him to modify previous child support orders when financial circumstances change.

Understanding the Texas Child Support Schedule

In Texas, how child support is calculated is outlined by Texas Family Code Section 154. Noncustodial parents pay 20% of their income for support of the first child and an additional 5% for each child up to the fifth.

In addition to this, the person paying child support receives statutory deductions from their gross income prior to the percentage being applied to their net income

Duration of Child Support Payments in Texas

• The parent is obligated to pay for a child until the child turns 18 or completes high school, whichever occurs later
• There are circumstances in which child support can be ordered paid past the age of 18 or graduation of high school, whichever occurs later
• Through automatic wage garnishment, or a wage withholding order, the state provides for prompt, reliable delivery of funds to the receiving parent

Modifying a Child Support Order in Texas

While Texas law doesn’t allow you to stop paying child support because the other parent is interfering with child visitation or another aspect of your court order, it does allow you to petition the court for a modification of your current order when circumstances change. Bradford L. Atkinson routinely advises clients on the importance of advocating for their rights in court rather than violating their obligations under the current order, which may lead to expensive legal fees and/or jail time.

Health Insurance Responsibilities for Parents in Texas

Texas requires that parents provide medical coverage for their children. Commonly, health insurance is available or is in effect for the child or children through a parent’s employment or membership in a union, trade association, or other organization at a reasonable cost.

As such, the insurance coverage comes from that parent, with the other parent typically being ordered to contribute to the monthly cost of such coverage. In other cases, health insurance is not available to either parent and other options must be considered.

Child Support Challenges in Conroe, TX: What You Need to Know

Living in Conroe, TX, and the surrounding areas of Montgomery, Harris, Walker, and Grimes Counties, families often face unique challenges when it comes to child support. The local economy, job market, and cost of living can significantly impact a parent's ability to meet their child support obligations. For instance, fluctuations in employment opportunities in Conroe and nearby cities can lead to sudden changes in financial circumstances, making it difficult for some parents to keep up with their payments.

Local government entities, such as the Montgomery County Child Support Office, provide resources and assistance to help parents navigate these challenges. However, understanding the intricacies of Texas child support laws and effectively presenting your financial situation to the court can be daunting without professional guidance.

Reliable Legal Support for Child Support Matters

Bradford L. Atkinson is well-versed in the local dynamics of Conroe and the surrounding counties. He understands the common pain points faced by parents in this region, such as job loss or significant changes in income, and can help you petition for a modification of your child support order when necessary. By working closely with a knowledgeable attorney who truly understands the local landscape, you can rest easy knowing you have someone to guide you.

Whether you're dealing with a new child support case or seeking a modification due to changed circumstances, it's crucial to act promptly. Delaying action can lead to increased financial strain and potential legal consequences.

Contact Our Conroe Child Support Lawyer Today for Assistance

Sometimes, a parent loses a job or has a significant change to their financial status and may not be able to uphold the terms of a current child support or medical support obligation. It is important that you petition the court as soon as possible for a modification of your court order if you can no longer afford your current obligations. Conroe Child Support Attorney Bradford L. Atkinson can help you obtain a post-divorce modification of your child support arrangement. Delaying the filing of a modification suit can be costly and possibly lead to jail as a result of not paying support as ordered.