If you’re a parent in Harker Heights going through a divorce or custody case, understanding how child support works in Texas is essential. At The Law Office of Jonathan Tanaka, PLLC, we guide families through the legal steps required to ensure children receive the financial support they need.
How Child Support Is Calculated in Harker Heights
Texas uses a percentage-based formula to determine child support obligations, focusing primarily on the non-custodial parent’s net resources.
Standard Percentages (Monthly Income):
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1 child: 20%
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2 children: 25%
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3 children: 30%
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4 children: 35%
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5 or more children: 40%
The actual percentage may vary, depending on various factors. Speak with an attorney regarding your specific situation.
Enforcement of Child Support in Harker Heights
If payments are missed, the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) can enforce child support through:
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Wage garnishment
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Suspension of licenses (driver’s, hunting, etc.)
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Seizure of tax refunds
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Filing contempt of court charges
Having legal counsel is critical when enforcement action is needed or when defending against a support enforcement case.
Why Hire a Harker Heights Child Support Lawyer?
An experienced family law attorney can help you:
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Calculate accurate child support under Texas guidelines
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Request modifications if income or circumstances change
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File enforcement actions for unpaid child support
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Respond to allegations of non-payment
How to Establish Child Support in Harker Heights
Here’s what to expect when seeking to establish child support:
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Filing: Child support can be requested during a divorce, SAPCR (Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship), or through the OAG.
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Financial Disclosure: Both parties must provide income information and supporting documentation.
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Court Hearing or Agreement: A judge will approve support based on the evidence or a signed agreement between the parties.
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Ongoing Monitoring: Payments are typically made through the State Disbursement Unit to ensure accurate tracking.
How to Modify Child Support in Harker Heights
Child Support orders can be reviewed and be even modified to a higher or lower amount of child support if there’s a substantial change in:
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Income of either parent
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Medical needs of the child
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Custody or visitation arrangements
We can help file a petition to modify your child support obligation or increase the amount you receive.
Speak with a Harker Heights Child Support Attorney
Whether you are initiating, modifying, or enforcing child support, The Law Office of Jonathan Tanaka, PLLC is here to help.
We provide strategic, compassionate legal counsel tailored to your family’s needs.
Contact us today for a consultation!