Melissa Child Support Lawyer

Meticulous Family Law Attorney for Child Support in Melissa, TX

One of the many things that must be decided when parents separate or divorce is whether one parent will pay child support to the other. These funds are intended to provide for your children's basic needs and allow them to retain a similar standard of living as they enjoyed while you were together. Many complications can arise while negotiating for support, and you need an experienced lawyer on your team to overcome them.

Moore Family Law, P.C. can assist with all child support matters. Attorney Moore understands the relevant laws and how they apply to your case. With 20+ years of experience, we have the first-hand knowledge needed to ensure that your children's best interests are served and your rights are protected. Whether through negotiations or litigation, you can trust us to provide the top-notch legal representation you deserve.

Understanding Child Support Calculations in Melissa

The parent who pays child support (obligor) is usually the non-custodial parent. A standard method is used to calculate the amount of these payments, using the obligor's net financial resources. The net resources figure is reached by adding all sources of income, then deducting a variety of costs, such as Social Security taxes, state and federal income taxes, health and dental insurance, union dues, and other medical expenses for the children. The child support amount is then determined by the number of children and the net monthly amount:

• One child: 20 percent
• Two children: 25 percent
• Three children: 30 percent
• Four children: 35 percent
• Five children: 40 percent
• Six or more children: at least 40 percent

Although the Texas Family Code has guidelines that determine child support obligations, it is sometimes more beneficial for the children to deviate from those standards. Parents can agree to a different amount, but the court must approve and accept that amount. Otherwise, the court may ask you to renegotiate your agreement or impose obligations according to the guidelines. The best interests of the children are the standard used to make these decisions.

In some cases, the non-custodial parent earns less than the custodial parent. Paying a large percentage of their income may be an unfair burden. Whichever side of this argument you are on, we can help you request or dispute a deviation from the standard support calculations.

When determining child support, some parents wish to adjust the amount to allow for certain child-related expenses. Those might include healthcare costs, child care, private school expenses or other educational costs, fees and expenses associated with extracurricular activities, and college expenses. If you have children with special needs, we can assist you with determining a fair amount of support.

Child Support and Legal Paternity

Unwed fathers have no parental rights to their biological children, but they also do not have any obligations to them. For unmarried mothers seeking child support, establishing legal paternity is necessary. We can assist you through the process.

Sometimes, a mother may ask you to pay child support for a child you do not believe is yours. In that case, we can help you dispute paternity.

Texas Child Support Disputes and Resolutions

It may seem like child support matters are straightforward, but they can involve challenges like any other area of family law. We are fully prepared to pursue litigation if needed to achieve a result that protects both your interests and your children's.

Sometimes, a significant change of circumstances may indicate that a modification of your child support orders is needed. In other cases, you may need assistance requesting the court to enforce your child support orders. Whatever your issues, we can help you resolve them.

Contact Our Melissa, Texas Child Support Attorney

Whatever issues you are facing that involve child support, having Moore Family Law, P.C. on your side is invaluable. We will do everything in our power to achieve your objectives. Contact us online or call us at 214-764-8033 to get started.