Child Support and Statutory Guidelines Attorney in Austin, Texas
Practice Areas
Child support is an integral part of any separation or divorce that involves children. Few topics feel as emotionally charged as child support, and concerns about meeting a child’s needs, maintaining stability, and being treated fairly can weigh heavily on both parents.
Whether you’re the parent who will receive support or the one expected to pay it, child support discussions often carry frustration and uncertainty. These feelings are normal. What matters most is having clear information and steady guidance so decisions are made with your child’s well-being in mind.
At Gregory Hitt, I work with families throughout Austin, Texas, seeking practical answers and thoughtful solutions regarding child support. I am committed to providing personalized, efficient representation, working closely with you to thoughtfully and effectively resolve your child support issues.
If you need assistance with child support or understanding Texas's statutory guidelines, I can help you determine the best course of action for your family. Reach out to my firm today to schedule a consultation and explore your options.
Texas Child Support Guidelines
In most child support cases, Texas uses statutory guidelines to calculate the amount of support. These guidelines are designed to prioritize your children's financial needs. While every family’s circumstances are different, the guidelines provide a starting point that courts commonly rely on when issuing child support orders.
The Texas Family Code bases child support primarily on the paying parent’s net monthly resources. A parent's net resources generally include their wages, salary, commissions, bonuses, self-employment income, and certain benefits, after allowable deductions such as taxes and health insurance costs for the child.
Once a parent's net resources are calculated, a percentage is applied based on the number of children that require support. Under the Texas Family Code, the percentages typically follow this structure:
One child: 20% of net resources
Two children: 25%
Three children: 30%
Four children: 35%
Five children: 40%
Six or more children: Not less than 40%
These percentages apply up to a statutory income cap, which is adjusted periodically by the state. If a parent earns more than the cap, the court may consider additional support based on the child’s proven needs.
While these guidelines are influential, they aren’t automatic. Texas courts can consider other factors when deciding whether guideline support is appropriate in a particular case.
At Gregort Hitt, I am committed to helping you understand how these numbers are calculated, what documentation is required, and how guideline-based support applies to your unique circumstances. Reach out to my firm today to schedule a consultation.
For Experienced Assistance with Child Support Guidelines
Factors That Can Affect Child Support Amounts
Although Texas guidelines provide a baseline, the courts may deviate from the guidelines if your circumstances warrant a different outcome. This flexibility allows child support orders to reflect your family’s situation rather than relying solely on percentages. Several considerations that may influence child support determinations include:
Income variations: Parents who are self-employed, work on commission, or have fluctuating income may require closer financial review.
Health and medical needs: Ongoing medical care, therapy, or special educational needs can affect the amount of support.
Parenting time arrangements: While not commonly considered, parenting schedules may influence the amount of support in certain situations.
Other support obligations: A parent supporting other children may receive adjustments to their support amount.
Childcare and education costs: Necessary expenses tied to work or schooling may factor into the court’s decision.
At Gregory Hitt, my goal is to help you present clear, accurate information so the court has a complete picture of your financial circumstances and parenting capacity. I can also guide you through family mediation and dispute resolution to try to reach agreements outside of court, which can often save considerable time and money.
My Child Support Services
At Gregroy Hitt, I have over 30 years of experience in helping families with child support matters in Austin, Texas, and the surrounding areas. If you need help understanding the Texas statutory guidelines or advocating for a fair child support arrangement, my firm offers the following services:
Establishing child support orders: I can help you draft comprehensive documents to submit to the court to advocate for fair support amounts under the Texas statutory guidelines. While the court will determine the final amount, I can help you prepare for your case and advocate for your child's best interests.
Modifying child support orders: Sometimes, life happens. Whether you're dealing with a change in employment, relocation, or another significant life event, I can help you petition the court to modify your existing support order.
Determining statutory percentages: The Texas statutory guidelines and percentage breakdowns can be confusing. I am well-versed in these regulations and can help you better understand how the Texas guidelines could affect your support amount.
Contact an Experienced Child Support Lawyer in Austin, Texas, Today
Child support decisions can have significant impacts on your child’s daily life and your financial stability. Whether you need help advocating for child support, modifying an existing order, or understanding the Texas statutory guidelines, my firm, Gregory Hitt, is committed to providing comprehensive legal services tailored to your needs.
Located in Austin, Texas, I serve clients throughout Travis County, Williamson County, and Hays County. If you have questions about child support or statutory guidelines, reach out to me today to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.