Child Support in Texas

Statutes regulating child support are set forth in the Family Code. The "Guidelines" are presented in Chapter 154 and are presumed to be "reasonable" and "in the best interest of the child". Presumptions are rebuttable with the burden of proof placed upon anyone who objects.

Amounts due for child support after a divorce in Texas are calculated on "net resources". This defined term is more comprehensive than net income or take home pay, and includes all sources of income and benefit that may be assumed, imputed or implied. A divorce in Texas empowers attorneys with authority to subpoena records, take depositions and use any legitimate means of investigation. Alternatively, the amount of child support in Texas may be altered by agreement of the parents.

Guidelines are not concrete requirements. Courts presiding over divorce in Texas are allowed to consider the age and needs of children and the ability of parents to pay for the support, maintenance and development of their children. All judges hearing a divorce in Texas must review child support payments, if any, that may become payable.

Child Support in Texas - Marriage is not required.

Fathers and mothers pay child support, regardless of the existence of a valid, invalid or dissolved marriage through divorce in Texas. Paternity satisfies liability requirements and is often proved through DNA testing. Today, testing is over 99% accurate. More often, child support payments are determined in connection with a divorce in Texas and appear in the decree rather than paternity suits.