Lewisville Child Support Attorney

Understanding How Texas Calculates Child Support Payments

Child support is calculated using guidelines found in Texas Family Code § 154.125. When an obligor's net resources are no more than $11,700 per month, the guidelines for child support are as follows:

• 1 child - 20% of the obligor's net resources
• 2 children - 25% of the obligor's net resources
• 3 children - 30% of the obligor's net resources
• 4 children - 35% of the obligor's net resources
• 5 children - 40% of the obligor's net resources
• 6 or more children - Not less than the amount for 5 children

If the obligor's net monthly resources exceed $11,700, the percentages above apply to the obligor's income up to $11,700. The court then determines any additional support based on the obligor's additional income and the proven needs of the child.

In addition to the basic percentage guidelines, Texas courts review each family's specific situation before entering a child support order. Denton County courts, which serve Lewisville, often consider factors such as a child's medical needs, educational costs, or special circumstances that are common in this region. When calculating support, judges reference statewide guidelines but also account for local living expenses and access to resources, ensuring support orders reflect the realities in North Texas. Our team can explain how variables like non-traditional income or unusual family financial arrangements may impact how support is calculated.

Court guidelines provide the starting point, but judges may deviate from these rules if factors such as extra medical expenses or unique financial circumstances make a different amount more appropriate. Child support is set to meet a child's basic needs, and the amount can vary depending on the family's unique circumstances. Parents with complex cases can benefit from consulting a Lewisville child support attorney for guidance on legal considerations and possible support outcomes.

To speak with our experienced Lewisville child support lawyers, call us at (972) 460-6798 or contact us online today. 

What to Know About Starting a Child Support Case in Lewisville

To start a child support case in Lewisville, parents must follow Texas law and Denton County court procedures. Most cases begin by filing paperwork with Denton County Courts, which handle family law matters for local residents. The process typically requires providing detailed financial information and documentation about the child’s home life so the court can make an informed decision. Local court staff review the submitted paperwork and set timelines that reflect both the Texas Family Code and Denton County’s docket schedules. Preparing pay records, proof of health insurance, and documentation of child-related expenses in advance helps simplify your case and avoid unnecessary delays.

If parents cannot reach agreement on the support amount, a judge will resolve the dispute. Denton County judges expect honesty and cooperation throughout the proceedings. While the Texas guidelines frame expected support amounts, courts may adjust orders to fit each family's needs—especially in cases with fluctuating income or specific educational or medical expenses. Having a child support lawyer familiar with local court procedure reduces confusion and delays, guiding families more efficiently through each step.

Because Lewisville families sometimes work or have obligations in nearby cities, cases may cross county or even school district lines. Denton County courts remain the starting point for most support-related matters, but sometimes collaboration with other local entities becomes necessary. Our attorneys help ensure your documentation and case details stay consistent and meet all Texas and Denton County requirements, so support arrangements align with each child's best interests.

Key Factors Denton County Courts Consider for Child Support Deviations

Denton County courts recognize that the Texas Family Code's child support guidelines do not always fit every family's needs. Judges may change support amounts when the circumstances make the guideline calculation unfair or unworkable. Before approving a deviation, the court reviews many factors to ensure your child’s needs come first. These may include the costs of extracurricular activities, unique medical or educational expenses, and any other needs listed by the parents. Families may introduce travel expenses related to visitation or evidence that a support deviation is required to fairly serve all children in a blended family.

Judges evaluate both parents’ total available resources, not just net salary. If a parent earns commissions, bonuses, or irregular income, the court will consider how much these payments affect the ability to support the child. Sometimes, a court may credit other forms of support such as providing consistent housing or paying health insurance premiums. Local knowledge about Denton County’s cost of living allows judges to make adjustments when the guideline doesn’t reflect your child's actual needs. These deviations make court orders flexible enough to handle a variety of local family circumstances, and families have a stronger case when someone can clearly explain why those differences matter in their lives.

Navigating Modifications & Enforcement of Child Support Orders

Child support arrangements change as families grow or circumstances shift. Life events like job changes, moving, or shifts in a child's needs can lead a parent to seek a modification. Either parent may file for a change if a substantial life change has occurred. The court requires proof that these changes impact your ability to pay or your child's support needs—such as significant income changes, new health care costs, or a new living situation. Working with a skilled child support attorney in Lewisville helps you present updated information in line with Texas law and Denton County court requirements.

In Denton County, you must provide new financial documentation and evidence when seeking a modification. Courts will review the information, may schedule a hearing as needed, and decide whether to update the order. Our team can help explain what Denton County judges look for and guide you through the documentation process to ensure timely and fair review.

If a parent does not pay court-ordered child support, the law provides several enforcement mechanisms. These include wage garnishment, contempt proceedings in court, or suspension of certain licenses. The Texas Child Support Division often works with local authorities to enforce compliance, helping make sure children receive the support they need. Our team at Haugen Law Firm, P.C. is prepared to explain these steps and offer assistance to streamline the process and protect children's interests throughout Lewisville and Denton County.

How Local Resources & Knowledge Benefit Your Child Support Needs

Choosing a local attorney brings unique benefits to families addressing child support concerns. Attorneys at Haugen Law Firm, P.C. understand the legal landscape in Lewisville and have experience with Denton County courts. This familiarity helps us develop case strategies grounded in local court practices and realistic expectations for outcomes. We also help clients connect with local resources, including support groups, child welfare agencies, and educational programs serving Lewisville and nearby areas.

Denton County courts set specific procedures and timelines for family law cases, including child support. Our local experience helps cases run smoothly, Minimizing unexpected delays or missed deadlines. Families in Lewisville may also access programs run by the Texas Office of the Attorney General and local community groups that provide valuable information, mediation options, and practical workshops on navigating support and custody issues close to home.

Our lasting commitment to the Lewisville community keeps us current on court procedures and legal trends in the area. Whether you want to start, modify, or enforce a support order, our team offers guidance rooted in local knowledge and client-centered care, with your children’s and your own needs always the top priorities.

To speak with our experienced Lewisville child support lawyers, call us at (972) 460-6798 or contact us online today. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support

What Should I Do If I Cannot Afford My Child Support Payments?

If you cannot afford your current child support obligation due to a significant change in circumstances, act quickly. You may file in court for a modification. Until the court officially changes your order, you must continue to pay the original amount. Keep records of your financial situation and any partial payments you make as this can demonstrate good faith and help your case. Talking with a child support lawyer ensures your modification request clearly explains your circumstances and provides the information the court needs to make a fair decision.

How Does Joint Custody Affect Child Support Orders?

Texas law does not automatically eliminate child support in joint custody cases. Both parents may share physical and legal custody, but financial disparities may still require the court to order payments, ensuring the child enjoys a similar standard of living in both homes. Courts evaluate income, cost of living, and division of parenting time to determine what support level is fair for the child. Consulting a knowledgeable child support attorney in Lewisville can help you understand your options when joint custody impacts support decisions.

Can I Modify a Child Support Order If My Income Changes?

Parents can request a child support modification after a substantial change in financial circumstances, such as job loss, reduced salary, or new expenses for the child. Legal guidance helps you present documentation and explain your situation so the court can review your request promptly. Quick action can prevent arrears from building and keep your support order aligned with state law and family needs.

What Happens If Child Support Payments Are Not Made?

Nonpayment of child support leads to serious legal actions, such as wage withholding, reporting to credit bureaus, suspension of licenses, or contempt proceedings. The state and local courts take enforcement seriously to prioritize children's well-being. Parents who struggle to secure payments or who owe arrears should seek prompt legal advice to resolve outstanding issues effectively and avoid harsh penalties.

How Can a Lawyer Assist in My Child Support Case?

Working with an experienced attorney helps you navigate applications, modifications, or enforcement actions efficiently. Local lawyers understand what Denton County judges expect in support cases, helping you prepare documents and present your situation clearly in court. Your legal team can advise on negotiations, hearings, and ongoing strategies to protect your child and your financial interests through every step of the process.

Contact Haugen Law Firm, P.C. for Child Support Assistance!

Child support plays a vital role in any divorce case. If you are considering divorce or are already divorced, you need a Flower Mound & Lewisville family law attorney with the knowledge and experience to pursue the support your child requires. You may come to an agreement on the support amount with your spouse, but if not, a Texas family law judge will decide for you.

Haugen Law Firm, P.C. can help by reviewing your income, your spouse's income, and your child's needs to support a fair child support order.

Many families in Lewisville face unique financial challenges, such as joint employment in the Dallas-Fort Worth area or supporting children across county lines. Texas family courts, including Denton County, follow regional procedures that our firm can help explain and guide parents through. We assist families in gathering pay stubs and tax information, reviewing court expectations for non-traditional or variable income, and working to ensure judges receive accurate, organized documentation to make well-informed decisions.

Haugen Law Firm, P.C. is known for its reputation in results and preparation. The firm builds each case with careful attention to detail. Schedule a case evaluation today to learn what a Lewisville & Flower Mound family law attorney from our law firm can do to help secure the support you need. The team also assists with post-divorce modifications, providing ongoing legal support for parents navigating unfair or outdated support orders.

For those navigating child support law, current knowledge is key. Our attorneys monitor changes in regulations and procedures so you get timely, accurate advice. From your initial filing to later enforcement or modification, we provide local support tailored to your circumstances and your family's goals.