Colleyville, Texas Child Support Lawyers

Skilled Child Support Attorneys Representing Clients in Colleyville, TX

After a divorce, child support plays a valuable role in making sure that a child has access to the same financial resources as before. Whether you are paying or receiving that support, you may have questions about how it applies to your family situation. A Colleyville, TX child support attorney can help you understand your rights and advocate for you in a court of family law when needed.

At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we have earned over 100 5-star reviews for our supportive counsel and straightforward legal advice, as we focus on helping our clients achieve realistic solutions. We also have more than 50 years of combined experience, so you can rely on us to guide you through your case.

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

Child support in Texas is calculated using a formula based on the paying parent's total monthly income and the number of children that they are responsible for. For one child, the guideline amount is 20 percent of net income.

That percentage increases with each additional child, up to 40 percent for five or more children. Courts can also consider factors such as the costs of health insurance, child care, and any special needs the child may have. While the guidelines provide a starting point, the final amount ordered can vary depending on the circumstances of each family.

Why Is Paternity Important to Child Support?

Establishing paternity is a necessary step before a court can order child support from a father who was not married to the mother at the time of the child's birth. Without a legal finding of paternity, a father has no enforceable obligation to pay support, and the child may be cut off from benefits they are entitled to, including health insurance coverage, inheritance rights, and access to the father's medical history.

Paternity can be confirmed through a written acknowledgement signed by both parents, or through a court order following genetic testing. Once paternity is established, the court can address support, custody, and visitation.

Modifying Child Support Payments in Texas

Child support orders can be revisited when circumstances change in a meaningful way. Texas law allows either parent to seek a modification if it has been at least three years since the order was last set and the current amount differs from the guideline amount by 20 percent or $100, or if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances.

A job loss, a significant increase or decrease in income, a change in the child's medical needs, or a change of conservatorship can all serve as grounds for modification. Our attorneys can review your situation and help you pursue a change if the current order no longer reflects your real situation. We can prepare documentation that shows the proof of a substantial change, supporting your case with hard figures.

Our firm also handles child support enforcement. If the other parent has fallen behind on payments, stopped paying entirely, or is otherwise not complying with the order, we can help you take action. Texas courts have tools to address non-payment, including wage garnishment, license suspension, and contempt proceedings. You should not have to chase down support that was ordered by a court.

Contact a Colleyville Child Support Attorney Today

Child support matters can be more complicated than the guidelines suggest. Having an attorney on your side is highly advisable to address any points of confusion, whether you are paying or receiving support. At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we are ready to help you move forward. Contact our Colleyville, Texas child support lawyers or call 972-584-9382 today to schedule a free initial consultation by phone, virtually, or in person.