How Child Support Is Enforced in Texas?

Child support is an essential part of ensuring that every child has the financial support they need. In Texas, this support helps cover everyday costs like food, housing, clothing, school supplies, daycare, and extracurricular activities. Here’s a straightforward look at how child support works from a family law attorney in Dallas, Texas.

Child support is money paid by one parent to the other to help with raising their child. The amount is determined by using the Texas Child Support Guideline that is found in the Texas Family Code section 154. The child support starts as soon as it is ordered by the court. The non-custodial parent, often referred to as the obligor, is responsible for making child support payments. The custodial parent, known as the obligee, is the one who receives these payments to help care for the child.

Once a court orders child support, the parent who does not live with the child (the non-custodial parent) must start making payments. This is true even if the parent has previously provided financial support. In some cases, a court might also order the payment of retroactive child support for the time before the child support was rendered.

In Texas, the Office of the Attorney General plays a key role in enforcing child support orders. If a parent falls behind on payments, the office has several tools to ensure compliance:

• License Suspension: They can work with over 60 agencies to suspend various licenses, including driver’s, professional, hunting, and fishing licenses.
• Passport Denial: A noncustodial parent may be denied a new or renewed passport.
• Liens: They can place liens on properties, bank accounts, retirement plans, personal injury claims, and other assets to recover unpaid child support.

At the Law Office of John Nwosu PLLC, we’re here to guide you through the child support process with ease. We’re a family law office in Texas that has over a decade of experience in handling child support cases. Whether you need help with payments, enforcement, or understanding your rights, our team is ready to assist you. 

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