Pearland Child Support Attorneys

Trusted Pearland Attorneys for Child Support Agreements

Whether you are in the process of filing for divorce or working to modify existing support arrangements, child support can be an incredibly contentious issue in any family law case. In Texas, the law imposes a duty on any parent to financially support their children, even if they do not have physical possession of them. Child support is intended to help the other parent with the expenses in raising a child. The duty of support is one owed to the child – not the other party – meaning that even if that child is raised by a non-parent, i.e., a grandparent, a biological parent may still be ordered to pay child support.

Parents often have misconceptions about the purpose and process of child support. It is crucial to understand that this financial obligation ensures that a child's basic rights and needs are met regardless of the parents' relationship. This understanding can help mitigate conflicts and facilitate smoother negotiations. With the help of the Pearland child support lawyers at The Dieye Firm, you do not have to go through this process alone. With over 15 years of experience, Papa Dieye is who you want on your team entering this process.

Contact our Pearland child support attorneys at (832) 299-1990 today. 

Essential Elements of Child Support in Pearland

Child support is crucial for ensuring the well-being of children and providing the financial support they need to thrive. Our team is dedicated to helping parents navigate the complexities of child support laws in Texas and ensuring the children's best interests are prioritized.

Some key points to understand about child support include:

• It helps cover essential expenses such as food, clothing, housing, and healthcare.
• It ensures that both parents share the financial responsibility of raising their child.
• It provides stability and security for the child's future.
• It is determined based on both parents' income and the child's needs.

In addition, both parents need to maintain open lines of communication regarding any changes in financial circumstances that might affect child support. Regular updates and transparency can prevent misunderstandings and foster a cooperative environment.

Our Pearland child support attorneys are here to guide you through the process of creating a fair and legally sound child support payment plan.

Criteria for Child Support Payments in Texas

Generally, in Texas, the non-custodial parent pays child support. This party does not have the exclusive right to designate the child's primary residence. The custodial parent is expected to use the child support money for the care and maintenance of the child. With court approval and if in the child's best interest, the parties can agree to go without child support, especially if possession is split evenly between the parties and their income is like one another.

Moreover, Texas courts consider several factors when determining the child support obligations, such as the special needs of the child, education expenses, and healthcare needs. Each case is unique, and the court strives to ensure the final arrangement serves the best interest of the child. Understanding these criteria ensures both parents can negotiate better and be prepared for court proceedings.

How Child Support Is Calculated in Texas

Texas is one of the few states that uses a basic percentage of income in calculating child support. All income is included for child support purposes.

The support statute in Texas is broad and includes:

• All wages (income, tips, bonuses, and dividends or royalties)
• Net rental income
• Any other income actually received, including per diem, disability, and alimony

The guidelines are based on a monthly gross income of $8,550, although the court can deviate.

Next, the court will look at the number of children the paying party has to determine the percentage he or she will need to pay, as follows:

• One child: 20%
• Two children: 25%
• Three children: 30%
• Four children: 35%
• Five children: 40%
• Six children: no less than 40%

The obligor, i.e., the party ordered to pay child support, may be entitled to a reduction in the guidelines if they have other children. Therefore, for example, if you have 2 kids with different persons, you may pay 17.5% as opposed to 20%. It's worth noting that while percentages provide a starting framework, variances are frequently made to account for individual circumstances such as healthcare and education costs or preexisting responsibilities to other children. These nuances ensure that each child support arrangement caters precisely to the