Child support in Texas can be a difficult situation to deal with for the non-custodial parent. This is especially true if there are financial considerations or other issues that come up amidst a series of disagreements with the custodial parent. With that in mind, the Office of the Attorney General in Texas has provided information and advice for the non-custodial parent when it comes to child support. Understanding and following the guidelines can avoid rancor and legal trouble for a number of situations.
When a non-custodial parent receives a court summons, it is important to go to court. Failure to do so can allow the court to decide various matters without the non-custodial parent’s input. For example, the court can order a non-custodial parent to pay child support even if that parent didn’t appear in court.
A non-custodial parent can protect his or her rights by opening a child support case with the Office of the Attorney General. Parents who are not able to make the full payments in a given month should pay whatever they can. This can help them avoid an allegation of delinquent payments, as well as pursuit by child support enforcement.
If a non-custodial parent experiences a change in circumstances such as a job loss, a case review is possible and the court can order a child support modification. Failing to pay child support can cause many problems. This will not simply disappear on its own and the longer the parent goes without paying, the more he or she will owe. These are just some of the factors that must be accounted for regarding child support. Those who need legal help should make certain to discuss the matter with an attorney experienced in child support issues.
Source: texasattorneygeneral.gov, “Handbook for Non-Custodial Parents — Ten Things Non-Custodial Parents Should Know About Paternity And Child Support,” accessed on Jan. 26, 2016