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Every child deserves the full support of both of their parents, both emotionally and financially. That’s why it is typical for a divorce to include a child support order. This is money that the noncustodial parent pays towards the day-to-day living expenses of the children. It can be spent on extracurricular activities around San Antonio, a safe home, a good education, clothes to wear, or anything else. Child support is all about giving the children the support they deserve – it is not a payment to the custodial parent. Speak with the San Antonio child custody lawyers at Zarka Law Firm today.
Child support is determined either through mediation or by the court and is based on many factors. These factors vary based on the unique situations of the family. For example, courts will consider the total resources available to each parent – such as salary, interest, and any other income such as rental properties or pensions.
The courts will also consider factors such as the age of the child and their needs. For example, a child with special needs might warrant a larger amount of support. Typically, a parent owes 20% of their resources for one child, and an additional 5% for each additional child. Taking all of this into account, the court will determine how much the noncustodial parent owes to the custodial parent.
Special considerations
Sometimes, child support can include ordered payments toward college expenses, even if those occur after the child has turned 18. This is achieved through mediation. If education is a priority for both parents, you can negotiate a child support agreement that takes those expenses into account.
In very rare cases, the noncustodial parent chooses to be unemployed or underemployed in order to limit the resources available to them and lower the amount of child support. The state of Texas does not want parents to be able to avoid supporting their children, which is why they might order child support based on earning potential rather than actual earnings.
If the noncustodial parent is not paying the ordered child support, the custodial parent can legally pursue them for it. A San Antonio child support attorney, like one from Zarka Law Firm, can help you get the money your children are entitled to. Money can be garnished from the obligor’s wages. It is then sent to the Texas Disbursement Unit and paid directly to the other parent without any direct involvement from either parent.
If you are the parent who owes child support, you want to be careful to keep careful records of your child support payments. You want to be able to prove that you have paid everything you owe and have paid it on time. If you feel that the amount you owe is unfair, don’t simply stop paying it. Instead, work with a San Antonio child support lawyer to help you renegotiate the child support payments.
Child support is not intended as a punishment or reward for either parent. It is also not connected to visitation rights. Instead, it’s simply about ensuring that both parents are contributing to the financial needs of the kids. If you are a noncustodial parent, you are paying less of the day-to-day expenses related to raising children. That’s why you need to pay child support.
We believe that most parents want what is best for their children. Paying child support is one way that you can support your children in their day-to-day lives, even if you do not see them every day. Your money will be contributing to their growth every day.
If you are working on negotiating a child support agreement, need help getting the support you are entitled to or want to renegotiate your payments, reach out to us today. Our San Antonio child support attorneys can help with any custody case so that you can be confident your children are getting the support they deserve.
