Financial hardships can arise when parents decide to separate or divorce. Fortunately, child support was established in the state of Texas so that the children still have the economic support they need when parents separate. Although there are exceptions, many times the mother is the custodial parent while the father pays child support. Here are a few basic things fathers should know about child support.
What happens in joint custody arrangements?
It is the responsibility of both parents to financially support their children. In most joint custody arrangements, the courts will determine how much each parent is required to pay in child support. The court will determine this amount by examining the amount of time each parent has the kids and how much each parent contributes to the couple’s total income.
Modifying payments
The need to modify child support payments is usually determined by the court and the father’s circumstances. If a father quits his full-time job to go back to school, the child support payments are usually not lowered. But if a dad loses his job or has to take a lower-paying job, this may be an appropriate circumstance for the court to reconsider the amount of child support he has to pay.
Where to go for help
It is important for parents to remember that no matter if they are paying or receiving child support, these funds are only to be used for the welfare of the children. Child support laws in Texas can be confusing. Parents in Texas who have questions about child support could get help by meeting with a legal professional. An experienced family law attorney can provide much-needed guidance and clarify the legalities surrounding child support.