Bedford, Texas Child Support Attorneys

Trusted Child Support Lawyers for Clients in Bedford, TX

Judges frequently order child support after a divorce with children to ensure that the child has access to sufficient resources while growing up. While this is usually straightforward, questions can arise about a parent's ability to pay or how much support a child needs. In cases such as these, a Bedford, TX child support attorney can help look after your interests and your child's needs.

At Powell Law Offices, P.C., our family law attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience, and we have helped many individuals and families in contested cases. If you are interested in working with our firm, we are available for free virtual consultations.

How Much Will I Pay in Child Support in Bedford, TX?

Texas uses child support guidelines to estimate how much the paying parent, often called the obligor, should contribute. The court usually starts with the obligor's net monthly resources. That figure may include wages, salary, commissions, bonuses, overtime, self-employment income, rental income, and certain other earnings. After allowed deductions, the court applies a percentage based on the number of children before the court.

For one child, the guideline amount is generally 20 percent of net resources. For two children, it is usually 25 percent. For three children, it is 30 percent. For four children, it is 35 percent. For five children, it is 40 percent. If there are six or more children, the court may order at least 40 percent. These percentages can change if the paying parent is also supporting other children.

The guidelines are important, but they are not always the end of the discussion. A judge factors in the child's specific needs, the parents' financial circumstances, health insurance costs, childcare expenses, and other relevant facts. In some cases, the court may order an amount that differs from the guideline figure if following the standard calculation would not be fair or would not serve the child's best interests.

When Is Non-Minor Support Ordered?

Child support usually ends when a child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever happens later. However, non-minor support may be ordered in certain situations. The most common example involves an adult disabled child who requires substantial care and supervision because of a physical or mental disability. If the disability existed, or its cause was known, before the child became an adult, the court may order one or both parents to continue providing support.

These cases are often more complex than standard child support matters. The court may consider the adult child's living needs, medical needs, daily care requirements, available benefits, and each parent's financial ability to contribute.

Support may be paid to the other parent, a guardian, or another appropriate person depending on the facts. If your child has long-term special needs, it is important to address support carefully so that the order reflects the reality of your family's situation.

When Can I Petition to Modify Child Support?

A child support order can be modified when circumstances change in a meaningful way. In many cases, a parent may ask for modification after a "material and substantial" change in circumstances. This could involve a serious increase or decrease in income, job loss, a change in the child's medical or educational needs, or a major shift in possession. A parent may also seek modification if the existing amount differs enough from what the guidelines would now require.

A court will not change support automatically. The parent requesting the change must file a petition and provide evidence supporting the request. Until a new order is entered, the existing order remains in effect. That means unpaid support can continue to build, even if your financial situation has worsened.

Contact a Bedford Child Support Lawyer Today

Child support disputes can affect your child's stability and your financial future. Call 972-584-9382 or contact our Bedford, Texas child support attorneys to schedule a free consultation with Powell Law Offices, P.C. today.