For many professional athletes, success on the playing field often translates into a healthy pay check and a comfortable standard of living. However, when a career comes to an end, so does the hefty salary and the ability to make possibly excessive payments for child support and other expenses. Regardless of one’s current economic conditions, a sudden reduction in income could cause many Texas parents to struggle to meet their court-ordered obligations.
Recently, retired NBA basketball star, Matt Barnes, filed a petition requesting that his court-ordered child support payments be reduced from $20,000 a month to $7,500. He claimed that the drop in his monthly income required that his payments be reduced to a more manageable amount. The new amount would mean that each child would receive approximately $3,750 per month.
A judge approved the player’s request. He also has custody of his two children. However, the reduction may only be temporary, as the court approved it only until the parents’ resolve their ongoing legal battles. Barnes also recently obtained a restraining order against the mother, though it is unclear what led to him seeking one against her.
Anytime parents find themselves in a position that makes it difficult to meet their child support obligations, they may feel that they have no choice but to fall in the arrears. However, Texas parents who find themselves at an economic disadvantage may seek a modification to their current orders in an effort to support their children while also trying to make ends meet. An experienced attorney can provide guidance in filing these petitions or in assisting with other family law-related matters that may impact their children.