Have you ever wondered what happens if one parent doesn’t pay child support—or how the court even decides how much should be paid in the first place? You’re not alone. Thousands of parents across Texas face this issue every year, and in many cases, they feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or even unsure of their rights.

That’s where legal guidance becomes more than helpful—it becomes necessary.

At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we focus on family law cases across Texas, including here in The Woodlands. Whether you’re seeking to establish, modify, or enforce child support, working with an experienced child support attorney in The Woodlands can make all the difference. We understand how emotionally and financially challenging these matters can be, and we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

In this article, we’ll explain the basics of child support obligations in Texas, how amounts are calculated, what parents can expect during the process, and when it’s time to contact a family lawyer in The Woodlands for help.

How Child Support Is Determined in Texas

Texas law follows a fairly structured formula when it comes to calculating child support. However, there are several key factors that the court will consider before reaching a final amount.

Here’s what typically goes into that decision:

• Net monthly income of the non-custodial parent
• Number of children needing support
• Other children the parent is supporting from a different relationship
• Health insurance and medical support obligations
• Extraordinary expenses related to the child’s needs

The most common guideline is that the non-custodial parent pays 20% of their net monthly income for one child, with an additional 5% for each additional child—up to 40%.

But formulas only go so far. If a parent is intentionally unemployed or underemployed, or if there are special medical or educational needs, the court can adjust the amount. That’s where legal representation becomes critical.

When Does Child Support Begin and End?

A court order typically starts child support payments from the date the order is signed, although sometimes the court may award retroactive payments going back to when the parents separated or filed the case.

Support usually continues until:

• The child turns 18 or graduates from high school (whichever is later)
• The child is emancipated by court order or marriage
• The child passes away
• In some cases, indefinitely—if the child has a disability that requires ongoing care

What Happens If Child Support Isn’t Paid?

Failure to pay court-ordered child support has serious consequences. The Texas Attorney General’s office may take enforcement action such as:

• Seizure of tax refunds
• Suspension of driver’s licenses or professional licenses
• Liens on property or bank accounts
• Contempt of court charges, which can lead to jail time

If you’re the parent owed support, or if you’re struggling to meet your payment obligations due to job loss or other hardships, working with a qualified child support attorney in The Woodlands can help you take immediate and appropriate action.

Modifying a Child Support Order

A child support order isn’t set in stone. It can be modified under certain circumstances:

• A material and substantial change in either parent’s income
• A change in the child’s living arrangements
• Medical needs or changes in custody

Modifications must be approved by the court. This is not something parents can decide between themselves and simply agree to informally. Even if both parties agree, an official court order must be in place for it to be enforceable.

Key Things Every Parent Should Know

Whether you’re paying or receiving child support, there are some important facts to keep in mind:

• The money is for the child—not the other parent. It covers housing, food, clothing, school supplies, and general care.
• Visitation is separate from support.You cannot withhold visitation if support isn’t paid, and you can’t stop paying support if you’re being denied visitation.
• All payments should go through the state disbursement unit to ensure proper tracking and legal compliance.

When to Get Legal Help

It’s smart to consult a family lawyer in The Woodlands if you’re:

• Being taken to court for child support
• Needing to enforce an unpaid order
• Unsure how much you should be paying or receiving
• Trying to modify an outdated agreement
• Facing penalties for nonpayment

An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, file the right paperwork, and represent your interests during hearings. Mistakes in child support matters can be costly and difficult to undo.

Need Help Making Sure Your Child Gets the Support They Deserve?

Child support isn’t just a financial issue—it’s about making sure your children have the stability they need to grow and thrive. Are you dealing with unpaid support? Confused about how much you’re supposed to pay? Wondering how to update a years-old order that no longer makes sense?

At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we represent parents across The Woodlands and greater Houston in child support matters. Whether you’re a custodial parent trying to collect unpaid support, or you’re concerned about being treated unfairly by the system, our team is here to advocate for you. We bring years of experience, deep knowledge of Texas family law, and a commitment to protecting what matters most—your family.

If you’re looking for a knowledgeable child support attorney in The Woodlands who will take your case seriously and work hard for your best outcome, reach out to us today. We offer compassionate, professional representation designed to resolve issues efficiently while keeping your child’s wellbeing at the center of it all.

Contact Daniel Ogbeide Law to schedule a consultation and get the support you need from a trusted family law team.