Cibolo, TX Child Support Lawyers

Knowledgeable Child Support Attorneys in Cibolo, Texas

The purpose of child support is to ensure that both parents are made financially responsible for their child when they do not live together in the same household, usually after a divorce. If you have any questions about this financial obligation, a Cibolo, TX child support attorney can clarify your rights and responsibilities.

At Brandon Wong & Associates, we can provide you with strong counsel and guidance to address issues of child support, whether you are responsible for paying it or not. We have received over 225 5-star reviews from satisfied clients, praising our thorough approach and compassionate client service in family law matters.

Child Support Guidelines in Texas

In Texas, child support obligations rest on statutory guidelines designed to ensure that children receive consistent financial support from both parents. The court calculates basic monthly support by applying a percentage of the obligor's net resources to the number of children entitled to support, starting at 20 percent of a parent's net resources for one child. It increases incrementally up to 40 percent for five or more children. Net resources include income from salaries, wages, commissions, self-employment, and royalties, minus certain deductions such as Social Security taxes and union dues.

The court may also consider additional expenses that serve the child's best interest. Health insurance premiums paid by either parent, work-related child care costs, and extraordinary medical or educational expenses can be added to or subtracted from the basic support amount. When parents share joint managing conservatorship, the court compares each parent's possession percentage and net resources to determine whether an adjustment is warranted.

Modifying Child Support Orders Due to Financial Hardship

Life events such as job loss, disability, or a significant change in income can justify modification of an existing child support order. Under the Texas Family Code, a parent seeking modification must demonstrate a material and substantial change in circumstances since the order was rendered. Alternatively, a parent may petition to modify the order if it has been three years since the last order, and the amount differs from the guidelines by at least 20 percent or $100.

To initiate a modification, the parent files a petition with the court that issued the decree. The petition should include income statements, documentation of the changed circumstance—such as termination notices or medical records—and a proposed revised support worksheet. Courts will assess the child's needs and the parent's ability to pay, while ensuring that the modification serves the child's best interest. Our firm can walk you through the steps to request a modification, taking swift legal action to avoid unnecessary delays.

Enforcing a Child Support Order in Cibolo, TX

When a parent fails to comply with a child support order, enforcement mechanisms are available to secure payment. The support recipient may seek enforcement through the Office of the Attorney General or file a motion in the district or statutory court. Texas law authorizes a range of remedies, such as wage withholding, suspension of driver's and professional licenses, interception of tax refunds, and, in some cases, contempt proceedings that can result in fines or jail time.

To pursue enforcement, the recipient documents missed or late payments and provides records such as payment histories from the court or the Attorney General's office. The court may schedule a hearing at which both parties can present evidence. If the obligor demonstrates an inability to pay due to circumstances beyond their control, the court may consider modification instead of punitive action.

Contact a Cibolo Child Support Lawyer Today

At Brandon Wong & Associates, we fiercely advocate for parents going through intense disputes. To schedule an initial consultation today, call us at 210-201-3832 or contact our Cibolo, TX child support lawyers.