Deviations from Frisco Child Support Guidelines

Whether you are paying child support or the parent receiving it, understanding how the amount is determined can help protect your rights and the well-being of your children. In Texas, the courts follow a stringent set of guidelines that identify how child support is calculated and enforced.

The guideline-based system considers parental income as well as the age and specific needs of the children, which may include food, housing, medical care, clothing, and educational expenses. In some instances, deviations from Frisco child support guidelines may be necessary, making it essential to seek legal guidance from an experienced child support attorney. Contact Towson Law Firm, PLLC today to schedule your consultation.

The Basics of Child Support

A non-custodial parent who no longer resides with their children is legally obligated to provide financial assistance to the custodial parent, allowing the children to maintain their current lifestyle. Regular monthly payments usually continue until one of the following events occurs:

• The child graduates from high school or turns 18 years of age, whichever is later
• The child’s death
• The child’s emancipation by court order, military enlistment, or marriage

Child support may be necessary indefinitely for a disabled child who is unable to support themselves. A compassionate Frisco attorney could provide you with a comprehensive overview of state child support guidelines, helping you understand how the laws apply to your current situation and whether alterations are possible.

State Child Support Guidelines

The child support guidelines outlined in Texas Family Code Chapter 154 are designed to ensure both parents contribute to the well-being of their children after a divorce or separation. When calculating a fair payment amount, the courts consider the net resources of each parent, which can include wages and salary, self-employment income, rental income, and other types of benefits and assets.

The guideline percentages of the net monthly resources of the obligor (the person making the payment) range from 20% for one child up to at least 40% for six or more children. These child support guidelines are typically followed, but in some cases in Frisco, adjustments may be necessary due to extenuating circumstances.

When Deviating From the Guidelines Could Be Necessary

According to Texas Family Code §154.123, the court can deviate from the established guidelines based on the following factors:

• Age of the child(ren)
• Amount of time each parent has custody of the child(ren)
• Changes in parental income or involuntary unemployment
• Earning potential or financial assets of the child(ren)
• Extraordinary medical or educational expenses
• Increase in childcare costs
• Significant travel expenses related to visitation
• Spousal maintenance payments (alimony received or paid)

All child support guideline deviations in Frisco must be justified by the court and put in writing as part of the final agreement. If, at a later date, either parent considers the custody support arrangement to be unfair, they may file a formal request for a modification to the payment amount.

Contact a Frisco Attorney to Discuss Your Child Support Arrangement and Deviations From State Guidelines

Every child support case is unique and requires the legal expertise of a trusted attorney to ensure the financial needs of the children are met. While the Texas Family Code provides the framework for determining payment amounts, deviations from Frisco child support guidelines may become necessary for various reasons.

Contact our team at Towson Law Firm, LLC today to schedule a consultation. Whether you are just getting started or need to request changes to an existing child support agreement, our caring team has the necessary skills and resources to help you navigate the family court system.