Houston Child Support Attorney
Your drive to protect and provide for your children runs deep as a parent. We understand that facing changes like divorce or separation can bring apprehension about your ability to meet your children’s needs while also staying financially stable. These worries about the future and how they might affect your family’s lifestyle are deeply felt, and that’s completely understandable.
At Skillern Firm, we genuinely recognize the emotional weight that comes with child support decisions. Any child support arrangement must be fair and accurately reflect Texas law and your family’s situation. Your financial well-being, and that of your children, hinges on these outcomes being set up correctly.
Since 2010, Skillern Firm has focused on family law in Texas. We thoroughly understand the complex financial matters involved in calculating child support payments. We’re here to guide Houston parents through the complexities of child support with clarity and unwavering support.
We offer virtual consultations. Call (832) 688-6606 to schedule a consultation with a Houston child support attorney today.
How Texas Calculates Child Support
Texas has clear guidelines for determining child support, mainly focusing on the paying parent’s “net monthly resources.” We get this number by taking all gross monthly income and subtracting specific allowable deductions.
Once we figure out the net monthly resources—up to a current cap of $9,200 per month—a set percentage is applied based on how many children need support. For instance, it’s 20% for one child and 25% for two. If income exceeds this cap, additional support might be ordered if the child’s proven needs are met. Courts can also adjust the guideline amount if applying it would be unfair or inappropriate due to factors like a child’s special needs or other compelling situations.
Beyond this main support amount, Texas law also requires provisions for the child’s medical and dental support, including health insurance coverage.
when & how to modify your houston Child support order
Child support orders are designed to meet children’s needs. Still, sometimes life changes mean the original terms aren’t practical or fair anymore. Texas law recognizes that circumstances evolve, and parents may need to ask for adjustments to reflect their current situation. Ultimately, any modification must always put the child’s best interests first.
In Texas, there are two main reasons a court might modify a child support order. One is if there’s been a “material and substantial change” in circumstances since the last order. This could be a significant change in a parent’s income, a shift in where the child lives, or new medical or educational needs. The other reason is if three years have passed since the order was issued or last updated, and the monthly support amount differs by 20% or $100 from what current guidelines would suggest.
To legally adjust a child support order, you must file a “Petition to Modify the Parent-Child Relationship” with the court that issued the original order. Informal agreements between parents to change payment terms aren’t legally enforceable, so getting a new court order to make any modifications official is crucial.
If you’re in Houston and thinking about modifying a child support order, understanding Texas laws and legal procedures is key. With the proper guidance, you can navigate the process and seek an updated order that genuinely reflects your current circumstances.
Understanding Your Rights in Child Support Agreements
Navigating child support arrangements can be challenging, particularly when trying to understand your rights and obligations. It's essential to know that both parents have responsibilities in the financial support of their children. Our experienced attorneys at Skillern Firm are here to clarify your rights and help you advocate for a fair child support agreement that aligns with your child's best interests.
Key aspects of your rights include:
- Right to Fair Consideration: Ensure that all aspects of your financial situation are accurately represented in determining support obligations.
- Right to Modifications: As circumstances change, you may have the ability to request a modification of the child support order. Understanding the process is crucial.
- Right to Involvement in the Process: You have the right to be actively involved in negotiations and decisions regarding child support.
- Right to Court Representation: Our team can represent you in court to advocate for your interests and pursue a fair arrangement.
- Right to Request Accounting: As a parent, you can request transparency regarding how child support funds are used, ensuring that support directly benefits your child.
Our commitment at Skillern Firm is to empower you with the information and support you need to navigate child support discussions confidently. With our expertise and personalized approach, you can focus on what truly matters—your child's well-being.
Why Choosing the Right Child Support Attorney Matters
Navigating the complexities of child support can be daunting, which is why having the right legal representation is crucial. At Skillern Firm Divorce & Child Custody Lawyers, we understand that each family's situation is unique. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring that your child's best interests are always put first.
When you choose our firm, you gain access to:
- Tailored Legal Strategies: We take the time to understand your specific circumstances and develop a strategy that aligns with your family’s needs.
- Empathetic Support: We recognize the emotional weight of child support issues. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance and reassurance during this challenging time.
- Transparent Communication: We keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring you understand your options and the potential outcomes of your case.
- Strong Negotiation Skills: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who strive for fair agreements that work for both parties, often minimizing the need for lengthy court battles.
- Ongoing Support: Even after your child support agreement is established, we’re here for you if you experience changes in circumstances that may require modifications.
Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. Contact Skillern Firm today for a consultation, and let us help guide you through the child support process with confidence and care.
Schedule a consultation with a Houston child support lawyer today by calling (832) 688-6606 or contacting us online.
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“Omg!! All I can say is Thank you, I can’t express how much I appreciate you guys! YOU SAVED OUR LIVES, and I will forever be grateful! I highly recommend hiring them, they will fight for you, the outcome was a success! My son and I have our freedom thanks to them!”- Stephanie B.
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“I had a divorce case involving a minor child, and choosing this law firm was the best decision I could have made. Attorney Amber Skillern was outstanding — professional, efficient, and incredibly supportive. Everything was handled quickly and precisely. She explained every step clearly and made a stressful situation feel manageable.”- Olena L.
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“Not one detail missed and with the situation where my children were at risk, the extra care and attention made all the difference to get full judgement in my favor. I highly recommend Matt and his team!”- Tracy C.
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“Skillern Firm is the best attorneys in Houston. He genuinely cares about his clients and his firm is diligent, hardworking and very through. I highly recommend him and do not have enough words to thank him for his extraordinary performance in getting justice for my family.”- Fauzia S.
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“My hired attorney is Alex. She’s phenomenal! I recommend her at any opportunity that I can. She is everything you would want in an attorney and it was so reassuring to have her support throughout this whole process. She’s worth every penny!”- Taylor T.
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“Skillern Firm was an outstanding law firm that guided me through my divorce petition from start to finish. Amber, my attorney, was a pleasure to work with. I truly appreciate her dedication and the effort she put into ensuring the process went as smoothly as possible.”- Luna O.
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“Matt's legal expertise and strategic approach were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to listen to my concerns, addressing each one with patience and clarity. His ability to navigate the complexities of family law while being completely present and compassionate was truly remarkable. I felt supported every step of the way, which made a challenging time in my life much more manageable.”- Milana T.
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