Dallas, TX Child Support Attorneys

Child Support Attorneys Representing Families Throughout Dallas County, Texas

Child support disagreements often begin when parents have different ideas about what their children need or how much each parent can afford. Texas has guidelines for calculating support, but determining the right amount is not always simple. Disputes can arise when parents disagree about income, expenses, or how much financial support their child needs.

At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we understand how important reliable financial support is for your child's well-being. Attorney Lauren Powell has more than 20 years of experience handling family law matters. This includes disputes over child support payments and financial obligations. Our firm takes a family-focused approach to each case while providing strong representation when disagreements require court involvement.

Calculating Child Support Under Texas Guidelines

Texas calculates child support using the paying parent's monthly net resources. Under Texas law, standard guideline percentages include:

• 20 percent for one child
• 25 percent for two children
• 30 percent for three children
• 35 percent for four children
• 40 percent for five children
• At least 40 percent for six or more children

Lower percentages apply when monthly net resources are below $1,000. Parents supporting children in other households may also qualify for adjusted calculations. As of 2026, the standard percentages apply to monthly net resources up to $11,700. Courts can order additional support when higher earnings and the child's proven needs justify it.

Addressing Disputes Over a Parent's Income in Texas

Calculating income is not always straightforward. Self-employed parents may have business expenses, irregular payments, or income from several sources. Courts can also consider earning potential when a parent intentionally earns less than they could.

These questions are especially important during a high-conflict divorce. Our attorneys examine financial records and help establish an accurate picture of each parent's resources.

Reaching Agreements About Child Support in Texas

Parents can sometimes agree to a different support amount through negotiation or mediation. However, the court must determine that the arrangement serves the child's best interests. If the amount differs from the guidelines, the court must explain why the difference is appropriate.

Support can be established during a divorce or in a case involving unmarried parents. Your child custody arrangement can also affect who pays support and how the order is structured.

Recovering Child Support Retroactively in Dallas County, TX

Texas courts can award retroactive child support when a parent did not provide required financial support before an order was established. The law presumes that support covering up to four years before the case was filed is reasonable. However, courts can order a longer period in certain circumstances.

Judges consider whether the parent knew about the child, whether support was previously provided, and the parent's financial circumstances. Our attorneys can review these factors and help you request or challenge retroactive support.

Changing an Existing Child Support Order

Texas permits modifications to child support when circumstances have materially and substantially changed. For many guideline-based orders, modification may also be available after three years if the guideline amount differs by at least 20 percent or $100. This alternative does not apply to certain agreed orders that departed from the guidelines.

Changes usually affect only payments due after the other parent is served or appears in the case. Until then, the existing order remains in effect. Our firm helps parents navigate these requests and understand their options before financial problems grow.

Enforcing Unpaid Child Support in Dallas, Texas

When a parent stops paying child support, Texas provides several ways to collect overdue payments. Most support orders require income withholding, which means payments are taken directly from the paying parent's wages. Under Texas law, courts can also enforce support orders through property liens, license suspension, and contempt proceedings. A parent found in contempt may face fines or jail time.

Overdue child support can also earn interest at six percent per year under Texas law. Parents who owe more than $2,500 may face federal passport restrictions. Our attorneys can help you collect unpaid support or defend against enforcement actions if you have fallen behind on payments.

Contact Our Dallas, TX Child Support Attorneys

Getting the right child support arrangement can make a difference in your child's financial stability. At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we bring more than 50 years of combined legal experience to cases involving unpaid support, disputed income, and changes to existing orders. Our firm has also earned more than 100 five-star reviews from clients.

Whether you need help with child support or another family law matter, our tech-savvy team can guide you through the legal process. Contact our Dallas, Texas child support attorneys at 972-584-9382 to schedule a free consultation by phone, video, or in person.