Child support is calculated to reflect the family’s current circumstances. This means that child support orders are well-suited to the involved children’s needs at the time they are handed down, but things can change. Texas courts allow child support modifications in response to substantial changes in circumstances, such as a significant change in the paying parent’s income.
If you need a child support modification, the best path forward is with professional legal guidance. Turn to an experienced San Antonio child support attorney at Cook Law Firm for the help you’re looking for.
A Significant Change in Circumstance
The court can modify child support in your case if the parent seeking the change can prove that there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances. While the state does not provide an exact definition of what makes a change both material and substantial, shifts like the following often suffice:
- A significant increase or decrease in the paying parent’s earnings
- The paying parent’s involuntary loss of their job
- The paying parent is becoming involuntarily underemployed
- One or more of the covered children is facing a significant change in relation to their medical, educational, or emotional needs
- A significant change in the amount of time the children spend with the paying parent
- The paying parent is suffering a serious health setback that affects their ability to cover the child support obligation
- The paying parent is experiencing a significant new financial obligation, such as the birth of a child
Every child support modification is based on the unique situation at hand, but these are common factors that often support such changes.
If Three Years Have Passed Since the Current Orders Were Issued
Parents can also seek modifications after at least three years have passed since the current child support order was handed down. At this point, the case is entitled to review, and if the court’s child support calculation changes by at least $100 or 20 percent, a modification may be ordered.
Do Not Take a Child Support Modification into Your Own Hands
One thing you should not do is use child support as a weapon to punish your ex for withholding parenting time. Both practices harm your children, and the court must address each.
Modifying child support between yourselves can also backfire. If your ex changes their mind about the mutually agreed-upon modification at some point in the future, you could find yourself on the wrong side of a legally binding court ruling.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Child Support Lawyer Today
The accomplished San Antonio child support attorneys at Cook Law Firm are committed to unleashing the full force of our experience and legal insight in pursuit of child support terms that accurately reflect your unique circumstances. We are on your side and here to help. Contact us online or call 210-740-0281 for more information today.