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When determining child support in high-income cases, Texas courts primarily consider the children’s needs and the parents’ ability to pay, often looking at potential earnings as well as actual income. Courts may deviate from the standard guidelines if the children’s needs or the parents’ financial situations warrant it.
It is crucial to hire a child support attorney experienced with child support cases, especially when substantial income is involved. An Austin high-income child support lawyer could help you understand the complexities of the law, navigate the process, and ensure your rights and your child(ren)’s needs are protected.
Texas child support laws dictate that a non-custodial parent is obligated to financially support their children until they turn 18 or graduate from high school. The state uses a percentage of income model to calculate support payments. This means the amount a parent pays in child support is determined by taking a percentage of their net income, and that percentage varies based on how many children are involved. Percentages range from 20% for one child to 35% for four or more children, with a potential increase for each additional child.
Child support for high-income earners is calculated in the same manner, but only up to a certain cap. The calculation is based on the non-custodial parent’s net resources, which means their income after certain deductions like taxes, social security, and other mandated subtractions. In high-income cases, parents may also negotiate and reach agreements regarding child support on their own, which may be formalized in a court order. Due to the complexities of high-income child support cases, it is highly recommended that you and your co-parent seek legal representation from experienced Austin attorneys.
While child support is capped under the standard guideline calculation, including for high-income earnings, if the children’s needs exceed what the guideline calculation provides, Texas courts may order additional child support. These needs for calculating additional support may include:
While high-income earners typically expect to meet the cap, you should be prepared to address potential additional support requests based on your child(ren)’s specific circumstances. An Austin lawyer may be crucial for high-income individuals navigating the complexities of child support issues. High-income earners often have intricate financial structures, including trusts and investments, which could complicate your child support calculations.
A skilled lawyer could analyze these structures to determine the child(ren)’s needs, ensure accurate support calculations and financial transparency, protect your interests, and represent you in court if necessary. You may also need legal assistance to seek modifications to existing orders if circumstances change in the future.
Child support cases are complex, involving specific state guidelines, income calculations, and potential modifications. An attorney familiar with these procedures could guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your rights and responsibilities.
When substantial income is involved, determining accurate child support payments that are fair for both parents is crucial. An Austin high-income child support lawyer at Kimbrough Legal, PLLC, may help uncover hidden assets, challenge inaccurate income reporting, and ensure your child support order is fair and appropriate. Reach out today to schedule your confidential case consultation.