Child Support Lawyer in Arlington, TX
Helping Parents Establish Clear, Enforceable Financial Support for Their Children
- Board-certified family law attorneys
- Guidance grounded in Texas child support law and guidelines
- Experience with enforcement, modification, and contested support matters
- Serving Arlington, Southlake, Mansfield, and the Greater DFW Area
Why Parents Turn to Harris Cook Law for Child Support Matters
Specialists You Can Rely On
Child support is not just about numbers on a worksheet. Our board-certified family law attorneys bring advanced legal training and a track record of success in support matters under Texas law. We help parents understand how support is calculated, when deviations apply, and how to protect their child’s financial interests through a legally sound order.
Local Court Insight
Child support cases are shaped not only by statutes but also by local court procedures and expectations. Our attorneys have long-standing experience working in Tarrant County courts, allowing us to guide cases efficiently, anticipate issues, and present clear financial documentation when it matters most.
Practical Solutions for All Clients
From self-employed income and shared expenses to enforcement disputes and modification requests, child support issues are rarely one-size-fits-all. We focus on practical, fact-driven solutions that hold up in court and provide long-term stability for children and parents alike.
Start With Clarity
Instead of Conflict
Uncertainty around child support can create unnecessary stress and long-term financial risk. At Harris Cook Law, we help parents replace confusion with clarity by explaining how the process works, what the court will consider, and what steps are needed to secure a fair and enforceable outcome.
Whether you are establishing support for the first time or addressing changes in income or circumstances, your family law attorney in Arlington TX, is ready to help you move forward with confidence, purpose, and a focus on your child’s best interests.
“David and his team made what was such a scary and painful process one that I felt so very well represented in and taken care of through. Most of all, I felt confident of his professional and compassionate counsel and representation in seeking the very best way to lead my children and I through this process.” — Katie, 5-Star Review
The Process of Determining Child Support
Following a divorce or separation in Arlington, Southlake, Mansfield, or elsewhere in Texas, child support is typically paid by the non-custodial parent to the parent with primary custody.
These payments are intended to help cover a wide range of expenses related to your child’s needs. Texas family law determines the amount of child support based on the specific facts of each case. Our lawyers can explain the guideline amounts used as a starting point so you have a general idea of what to expect.
In some situations, courts may deviate from the standard guidelines to reach a more appropriate amount of support. If this applies to your case, our Arlington, TX, child support attorneys can help determine a fair payment amount. Regardless of the final figure, child support orders are intended to promote the well-being of the children involved.
Consult Child Support Lawyers Who Have Served Greater Arlington for Decades
Our law office serves families throughout Arlington, Southlake, and Mansfield. At Harris Cook Law – Family Law Division, our attorneys are dedicated to helping parents establish child support arrangements that are realistic for the paying parent while serving the child’s best interests.
Whether you need help establishing child support after a divorce or separation, enforcing an existing order, or seeking a modification, our compassionate child support lawyers are here to provide guidance when you need it most.
To schedule an appointment with one of our Arlington, TX, attorneys, contact us online or call:
David Cook, LLP
When Is Child Support Granted?
Divorce
When a marriage ends in divorce, Texas courts often award custody to one parent. In these cases, the non-custodial parent is typically required to pay child support. Courts consider the child’s needs and each parent’s financial ability when determining support.
To calculate payments, the court first looks to the child support guidelines and then evaluates any extenuating circumstances. Parents should expect to provide financial documentation for review. Once issued, the child support order must be followed, regardless of visitation disputes.
Separation
When parents separate, custody and child support issues must still be addressed. The same factors considered during divorce apply in separation cases, though the type of legal action is different. It is possible to seek child support without filing for divorce. Our Arlington, TX, attorneys provide specialized assistance in both separation and divorce matters.
Paternity
If you are seeking to establish paternity, the case should also include a request for child support. Once parentage is legally established, the court can award child support. Paternity actions involve more than financial support. Establishing paternity allows a father and child to build a meaningful relationship and emotional bond. Our Arlington, TX, lawyers are proud to help fathers through this process.
Questions About Child Support? Our Firm Can Explain the Process
Setting up child support can feel draining and complex, and it is easy to overlook important financial considerations. Our family lawyers have handled child support matters for many years and can help you avoid common mistakes.
Our Arlington, TX, practice provides the guidance needed to pursue a fair arrangement that supports your child’s future. Contact our law office or call:
“We knew we were in great hands and we feel so blessed to have achieved the outcome that David and his staff worked so hard for.” — Michelle, 5-Star Review
How Is Child Support Calculated in Texas?
Texas law provides guidelines for determining child support based on the non-custodial parent’s average monthly net resources:
1 child | 20% |
2 children | 25% |
3 children | 30% |
4 children | 35% |
5 children | 40% |
6 or more children | Not less than 40% |
For example, if a non-custodial parent earns $4,000 in average monthly net resources, the guideline support amount for one child would be $800 (20%).
Parents who pay for medical or dental insurance may receive credit for those contributions. Guidelines may also vary if the paying parent has other children or limited income.
Parents may agree to pay more than the guideline amount, but generally cannot agree to pay less unless income is low. All child support agreements must be approved by the court.
Challenging Guideline Support & Steps We Can Take
Child support guidelines are only a starting point. In some cases, the calculated amount does not fairly reflect a family’s financial reality or the child’s needs.
When this happens, a child support lawyer can explain why the guideline amount may not be appropriate. Our attorneys understand the factors that can affect calculations and can assess whether the guidelines fit your situation.
If an adjustment is warranted, we can prepare the documentation needed to show the court why a different amount should apply.
Courts may consider factors such as:
- Financial resources and debts
- Time spent with each parent
- The receiving parent’s net resources
- Spousal support obligations
- Income from property or other assets
- Employment benefits such as housing or a company vehicle
We’ll Help Get It Right
Putting child support terms in writing helps both parents understand what is covered and what is not. As children grow, expenses often change.
For example, extracurricular activities such as sports or music may become available. These opportunities often involve additional costs. A clear support agreement can address whether those expenses are included.
Child support can affect your life for many years. Getting it right from the start helps build long-term stability. If you have questions about your child’s financial future, contact us online or call:
Can I Withhold Payments If I Am Being Denied Visitation Rights?
Visitation and child support are separate legal issues. Withholding support because of visitation issues is against Texas law.
The proper approach is to continue making payments and file the appropriate action with the court. Similarly, a parent cannot deny visitation because support payments were missed without court involvement.
If you are facing one of these conflicts, contact our Arlington, TX, lawyers. We will listen to your situation and help guide you through the correct legal process.
We Remain Focused on Your Child’s Well-Being
Child custody and child support often go hand in hand. If you are not receiving adequate support, our attorneys work to help ensure your child has the resources needed to thrive.
Family law matters can be stressful and emotional. Our compassionate team strives to reduce anxiety and provide steady guidance. To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call:
Improper Use of Payments
Questions about how child support funds are used are common. Texas law gives the receiving parent broad discretion, and the key consideration is whether the child’s needs are being met.
If misuse is suspected, the paying parent cannot stop payments on their own. Instead, a motion must be filed with the court, along with evidence. Our Arlington, TX, child support lawyers can assist with this process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support in Texas
What if I have stopped receiving child support payments?
If payments stop, court involvement may be required to enforce the order. Texas has procedures to help ensure children receive the support they are entitled to. Our attorneys can help guide you through enforcement.
How long does it take to receive the first payment?
Once the order is official, payments are processed by the State Disbursement Unit. Mailed payments often take 5–7 business days, while direct deposit typically takes 3–5 business days.
What is retroactive child support?
Retroactive child support covers periods when support should have been paid before an order was in place. Courts may award retroactive support if it serves the child’s best interests.
Does getting married affect child support?
Marriage usually does not affect child support unless the parents marry or remarry each other and jointly support the child.
Can Social Security benefits affect child support?
Yes. Certain benefits, including disability or retirement benefits, may impact child support calculations. If benefits begin after support is set, a modification may be appropriate.
