Changes to the Texas Family Code, Coming September 2018
(NOTE: Texas family law defines the “obligor” as the person paying child support and the “obligee” as the person who receives it.)
The Texas Family Code currently requires the obligor to cover all or part of their child’s health insurance. This fall, paying parents will also be required to pay for all or part of their child’s dental insurance. However, the good news for paying parents is that the total amount spent on paying for their child’s dental insurance policy will be deducted from their total monthly resources available for child support.
As it currently stands, the Texas Family Code also maintains that the court can change child support agreements under the following circumstances:
- The marital status, financial situation, or general circumstances of the child or either parent have changed drastically since the court issued the initial child custody order.
- The divorced (or divorcing) parents have undergone mediation or collaborative legal proceedings and have come to a consensus regarding child support.
- The amount of child support being paid deviates from what the Texas Family Code outlines by at least 20% or $100.
However, in September 2018, the courts will only be able to change child support orders if the material or financial situation regarding the child or either spouse has changes significantly since the court made their initial order.
What Does This Mean for Texas Families?
Put simply, this makes it much more difficult for divorced parents in Texas to stray from their court-ordered child support payments, even if two parents agree on the changes or if one experiences a significant change in material resources.
However, these changes are not yet in effect and their broader impact on families in the Lone Star State are not yet entirely clear, though it is apparent that determining the proper amount of child support on the front end (during divorce) is absolutely essential for all parties involved. In order to do so, divorcing parents will need to secure legal representation and choose to work with a family lawyer who has in-depth knowledge of the Texas legal system, especially as it pertains to child support.
Experienced Family Law Attorney
Getting divorced is challenging no matter when, where, or how you do it. Getting divorce in the midst of major changes to Texas family laws can be even more challenging. That’s why it is essential to go into your divorce or child custody dispute armed with up-to-date knowledge and competent legal support. Attorney Mark Fischer of Fischer Law Firm, P.C. is the man for the job.
Contact our firm to schedule your free consultation today, or call (346) 444-1050 to speak to a member of our team immediately.
