Child Support Lawyers in Austin, Texas
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.
Child Support Law in Texas
Texas has its own distinct legal landscape that affects personal injury cases. The state follows a modified comparative fault rule — you can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the incident. Texas also has specific caps on certain types of damages in medical malpractice cases, and a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims.
Key Texas Statutes
- Two-year statute of limitations for personal injury (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Chapter 16)
- Modified comparative fault — recovery barred if you are 51% or more at fault (Chapter 33)
- Medical malpractice non-economic damage caps of $250,000 per provider, $500,000 for hospitals (Chapter 74)
- Texas is a "fault" state for car accidents — you can file against the at-fault driver
- Employers may opt out of workers' compensation — Texas is the only state that allows this
Common Child Support Situations in Austin
- 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
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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