Child Support

If you have filed for child support, received notice of a child support review meeting, or have been served with notice of a child support hearing, you should consult an attorney as soon as possible because your rights may not be protected by the Office of the Attorney General. The Office of the Attorney General represents the State of Texas and not you, the parent. No matter what aspect of child support you have a legal issue with, our firm is here to help you and guide you through the process.

Often times, parents apply for child support through the Office of the Attorney General, State of Texas. Once a parent applies for services, the Attorney General’s office will open a new case. Additionally, if a parent is already receiving or paying child support, the amount can be modified based on very specific guidelines.

As a general rule in Texas, child support is paid by the parent that does not have primary custody of the child or children. The amount of child support to be paid is based on a percentage of the parent’s net resources. The percentage paid by the parent varies depending on the number of children the parent has to support.

Understanding Child Support in Texas

Texas child support laws are designed to ensure that children receive the financial support they need from both parents. Whether you are seeking child support, responding to a child support action, requesting a modification, or dealing with enforcement issues, understanding your legal rights is essential.

The Law Offices of Rita C. Dixon PLLC provides experienced legal representation for parents throughout Texas who need assistance with child support matters. We work diligently to protect your rights while helping you pursue a fair outcome that serves the best interests of your child.

Although the Texas Family Code provides guidelines for determining child support, every family’s situation is different. The court has the authority to consider several factors when determining whether the guideline amount is appropriate. Having knowledgeable legal representation can help ensure your financial circumstances and your child’s needs are properly presented to the court.

How Child Support Is Calculated

Texas generally calculates child support using statutory guidelines based upon the paying parent’s monthly net resources. The court may consider several factors, including:

• The paying parent’s monthly net resources
• The number of children requiring support
• Existing child support obligations
• Health insurance costs
• Certain educational or medical expenses
• Whether applying the standard guidelines would be fair under the circumstances

Although Texas follows established child support guidelines, courts may deviate from the standard calculation when appropriate under the law.

Child Support Modification

Life circumstances often change after a child support order has been entered. In certain situations, a modification may be appropriate if:

• A parent’s income significantly increases or decreases
• Employment changes
• Medical expenses increase
• Custody or possession arrangements change
• The child’s financial needs change

If you believe your current child support order should be modified, our office can evaluate your circumstances and determine whether a modification may be available under Texas law.

Child Support Enforcement

Unfortunately, not every parent complies with court-ordered child support obligations. When payments are missed or support is not paid as ordered, legal action may become necessary.

We assist clients with:

• Child support enforcement
• Contempt proceedings
• Collection of unpaid child support
• Wage withholding
• Child support arrears
• Court hearings

Our goal is to help ensure children receive the financial support they are legally entitled to receive.

Why Hire a Child Support Attorney?

While the Office of the Attorney General provides valuable child support services, it represents the interests of the State of Texas—not either parent. Having your own attorney means you have someone whose sole responsibility is protecting your rights and advocating for your interests.

An experienced child support attorney can help:

• Explain your legal rights
• Prepare and file legal documents
• Represent you during hearings
• Negotiate child support agreements
• Request modifications
• Enforce existing court orders
• Protect your parental rights throughout the legal process

Serving Families Throughout North Texas

The Law Offices of Rita C. Dixon PLLC proudly represents families throughout Collin County, Dallas County, Denton and Tarrant Counties.  The firm also represents clients in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, Richardson and in other surrounding North Texas communities. Whether you are seeking child support, requesting a modification, responding to a child support action, or enforcing an existing order, we are committed to providing knowledgeable and compassionate legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated in Texas?

Texas generally calculates child support using a percentage of the paying parent’s monthly net resources while considering other legal factors established under Texas law.

Can child support be modified?

Yes. If there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances, either parent may request a modification of an existing child support order.

What happens if child support is not paid?

The court may enforce the order through wage withholding, contempt proceedings, judgments for unpaid support, or other legal remedies available under Texas law.

Do I need an attorney if the Attorney General is involved?

The Office of the Attorney General represents the State of Texas—not either parent. Having your own attorney ensures someone is advocating specifically for your interests throughout your case.

How long does child support last?

In most situations, child support continues until the child reaches 18 years of age or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. Certain circumstances may extend or end support earlier under Texas law.

Schedule a Consultation

Whether you are seeking child support, requesting a modification, enforcing an existing order, or responding to a child support action, The Law Offices of Rita C. Dixon PLLC is here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can protect your rights while helping secure your child’s financial future. You can schedule a consultation online or call us at (817) 768-6333.