Lakewood Child Support Lawyer

Child Support Attorney In Lakewood

Navigating major life changes like divorce—especially when minor children are involved—can weigh heavily on any parent. Texas courts will prioritize a child’s needs when issuing support orders, and it can be difficult to manage those obligations on your own. If you need help with an existing or newly established support order, a trusted Lakewood child support lawyer can guide you through the process with clarity.
The Law Office of Michael P. Granata is located directly in Dallas, TX, and offers personalized support to ensure that all clients are heard. We are an intentionally small firm offering customized attention with big firm results. We offer the legal assistance required to help your child get the support to which they are entitled.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Lakewood?

Texas calculates child support based on the net resources of the paying parent (obligor). The standard calculation includes percentages as follows:

• 20% of net resources for one child
• 25% for two children
• 30% for three children
• 35% for four children
• At least 40% for five or more children

Child support is capped at 40% of the obligor’s net monthly income. The state of Texas offers a monthly child support calculator here, which allows you to estimate child support. The actual amount approved by the court may be different. It is important to consult with an experienced child support attorney for real legal obligation calculations.

Benefits of Receiving Child Support

Approximately 30% of parents who are owed child support payments receive nothing. If child support is unpaid, the consequences can be serious under Texas law. Penalties include:

• Garnishment of wages
• Court fines and hefty legal fees
• Liens on property
• Seizure of tax refunds
• Suspension of their driver’s license

According to the Office of Child Support Enforcement, 750,000 people are lifted out of poverty as a result of child support payments. This is because single-family households are more likely to live in poverty in comparison to two-parent households. The consequences of living in poverty for children include:

• Disrupted brain development
• Poor academic performance
• Employment challenges as an adult
• Physical, mental, and behavioral health problems

In America, one in three kids lives with a single parent. If you find yourself in this situation and struggling to raise your household as a single parent without additional support, we can help.

Why Choose Us?

Having a skilled child support lawyer can help you in a myriad of ways. If you are newly divorced and just beginning to establish a parenting plan and support, legal aid can assist with guiding your choices to fit the needs of your child. If your case goes to court with the Child Support Division in Dallas, TX, an attorney can help advocate for you and your child.
As an experienced Lakewood child support attorney, we can help if you are owed back pay from child support by directly representing you in court. With over two decades of experience in family law, our case results speak for themselves, making sure families like yours are taken care of.

FAQs

How Is Child Support Calculated Under Texas Law for Parents in Lakewood?

Child support is calculated under Texas law based on the paying parent’s net income. Texas also allows for certain other deductions, such as the cost of health insurance for children, union dues, social security, and federal income tax. The maximum percentage that can be obligated to pay is 40% of the net income if you are supporting five or more children. An attorney can assist you in getting an actual set amount approved by the court.

Can a Lakewood, TX Child Support Lawyer Help Me Change an Existing Support Order?

Yes, a Lakewood, TX child support lawyer can assist you with modifying an existing child support order. Modifying a child support order can be a complicated and lengthy process. A lawyer can assist by filing the motion with the court, and they can also advise you on whether your request is feasible and worth pursuing. Legal representation can make sure you are represented and treated fairly through this contentious process.

What Are the Consequences if a Parent Fails to Pay Child Support in Texas?

If a parent fails to pay child support in Texas, they may face serious consequences and punishment. Wage garnishment, seizure of tax refunds, liens on property, and license suspension are the most common consequences. However, child support arrears are also reported to credit bureaus and can negatively impact your credit scores. Also, if the arrears become excessive, the parent can be denied a passport and can be held in contempt of court and face legal fines and jail time.

How Long Does It Usually Take to Establish a Child Support Order in Lakewood, TX?

Establishing a child support order in Lakewood, TX, may take a few months. If both parents are cooperative and the court isn’t busy, the order could be quicker and only take a few weeks. If parents agree to the terms of child support, your lawyer can assist in applying for support and help with negotiations. In contested cases, there will be a court hearing, and the judge will make the final decision.

Hire a Child Support Lawyer

In Lakewood, TX, where the current per capita income is $66,287 and costs are on the rise, it is important to hire a reliable child support lawyer who understands your family’s personal situation. A seasoned child support lawyer can help you throughout the process and offer explanations for state guidelines. The Law Office of Michael P. Granata offers a holistic approach where all members of our team will be at work for you.
Our firm has over two decades of experience helping families like yours in the greater Dallas area, securing child support orders to meet your child’s needs. Speak to an experienced child support lawyer today. We are here for you. Our office is conveniently located on North Central Expressway, only three miles from Lakewood.