Houston Child Support Lawyer
Every parent has an obligation to financially support their children, and that obligation doesn’t end with a divorce. But crafting a child support agreement can be one of the most difficult and sensitive aspects of the divorce process. A Houston child support lawyer at Slate & Associates can help you work out a fair plan that protects your child’s future.
How Is Child Support Calculated in Texas?
Texas courts consider a variety of factors when calculating a parent’s child support obligation, including:
- Each parent’s income and earning potential
- Each parent’s level of education and employability
- Childcare and education costs
- Health insurance and healthcare costs
- Cost of living
Depending on your family’s circumstances, other factors may also come into play. However, there are also certain guidelines depending on the number of children you have:
- One child: 20% of your net income
- Two children: 25% of your net income
- Three children: 30% of your net income
- Four children: 35% of your net income
- Five children: 40% of your net income
- Six or more children: At least 40% of your net income
In most divorces, parents will try to negotiate a child support agreement out of court while reducing conflict. However, if you and your spouse cannot agree on child support issues, the court will schedule a hearing and issue a support order.
Understanding the Relationship Between Child Custody and Child Support
Not every divorce requires a child support order. If both parents have equal custody, there may be no need for child support. But if one parent has sole custody of the child, they may require significant child support for the cost and care of the child.
Rather than assume what you will have to pay or what you will receive in child support, it’s best to consult with a board-certified Houston child support attorney. Dennis M. Slate is a board-certified family lawyer with extensive experience handling a wide array of divorce matters.
Speak With a Houston Child Support Lawyer
When you work with a child support lawyer at Slate & Associates, you can have peace of mind knowing that your case is in capable hands. Our goal is to minimize the negative impact divorce can have on you and your children. We provide quality representation and will to work resolve child support matters as quickly and fairly as possible. Contact our office today to learn more.