Child Support Lawyers
Child support ensures that both parents contribute financially to their child's upbringing. States calculate support using their own formulas. Texas, for example, uses a percentage-of-income model based on the paying parent's net resources and the number of children. An attorney can help you establish, modify, or enforce a child support order to protect your child's financial needs.
Common Situations
- Establishing a new child support order
- Modifying support due to income changes or new circumstances
- Enforcing unpaid child support (contempt proceedings)
- Paternity establishment for child support purposes
- Support orders involving self-employed parents
- Medical and dental support obligations
What to Expect
- 1Review of both parents' financial situations
- 2Calculation of support based on your state's guidelines
- 3Filing of the appropriate petition with the court
- 4Negotiation or hearing to establish the support amount
- 5Enforcement actions if the other parent is not paying
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated?
Each state sets its own formula. Texas, for example, uses a percentage of the paying parent's net monthly resources: 20% for one child, 25% for two, 30% for three, 35% for four, 40% for five or more. The court can deviate from these guidelines based on the child's needs or other factors.
Can child support be modified?
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances (such as a significant income change, job loss, or change in the child's needs), or if three years have passed since the last order.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No two situations are the same — consult a qualified attorney for guidance on yours.
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