Round Rock Child Support Lawyer

Parents and conservators usually believe their children deserve the best life they can provide. However, negotiating child support payments during divorce or other major life events can become a contentious subject that leads to disputes between parents and guardians. A neutral third party with experience in child support laws can help mediate the situation for an equitable solution. Partnering with a Round Rock child support lawyer can help you better understand state laws regarding child support and negotiate a fair and accurate agreement.

The experienced family law attorneys at Kimbrough Legal, PLLC, can help parents and guardians at any point in the child support journey. From establishing an initial payment schedule to enforcing or modifying payments, our lawyers could act as advocates for you and your child(ren) to develop and maintain a suitable plan.

Understanding Child Support Guidelines

In Texas, a non-custodial parent is generally required to pay child support for children under the age of 18. Support payments may be extended beyond that age if the child has not graduated from high school or is disabled. Texas Family Code §154.123 governs child support payment amounts and enforcement.

How Is the Amount of Support Determined?

Child support payments are based on the non-resident parent’s monthly income and the number of children for whom support is to be paid. However, other factors are also often considered when this number strays from Texas child support guidelines such as:

• Extraordinary daycare or educational expenses
• Special health or educational needs
• Medical expenses or other needs of the child

Parents and conservators can negotiate a child support agreement among themselves—however, presenting a plan that does not align with state child support laws can lead to challenges. An experienced attorney could provide evidence to the court to define why the support plan is in the best interest of the child(ren).

Modifying Child Support Orders

Child support payments typically remain unchanged after being ordered by the court. However, a parent can request a modification if they demonstrate a significant change in circumstances. This can include a substantial increase or decrease in income or a change in custody arrangements. In some cases, a modification may be denied—especially when a parent is intentionally earning less to avoid paying child support. A skilled Round Rock attorney could assist you with the process of developing and presenting a child support modification request.

How Are Child Support Payments Enforced?

Child support payments in Texas are not paid directly from the non-custodial parent to the other parent or guardian. All child support payments go through the Child Support Disbursement Unit (SDU) of the Texas Attorney General’s office. This service automatically triggers enforcement action if the non-custodial parent falls behind in payments. Unfortunately, the automatic process is not immediate. The court can take action to remedy delinquent accounts through several actions, including wage garnishment, freezing of bank accounts, or intercepting tax refunds for the non-resident parent. A knowledgeable child support lawyer in Round Rock could help you better understand this process and how you will receive the payments your child needs.

Contact a Round Rock Attorney to Address Your Child Support Concerns

Children deserve to have the best financial support that all their parents and guardians can provide. Unfortunately, developing and maintaining a fair payment plan is not always easy. If you are facing issues developing a plan or enforcing child support for your children, a Round Rock child support lawyer at Kimbrough Legal, PLLC, could help.

Whether you need help reaching an agreement or modifying an existing child support order, we could guide you through the legal process and act as an advocate for your child’s best interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.