Compassionate Guidance & Aggressive Representation for DFW Families
Quick Overview: Child Support in Texas
Child support is one of the most important—and most confusing—parts of any divorce or custody case. Whether you’re seeking support, paying support, or modifying an existing order, the rules in Texas can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.
At The Ashmore Law Firm, we help parents across Dallas–Fort Worth understand how child support is calculated, what courts expect, and how to ensure your child’s needs are protected now and in the years ahead.
Key Facts About Child Support in Texas
Texas uses statutory guidelines, but courts can adjust based on real-life needs.
Child support is based on net resources, not just W-2 income.
Self-employment, bonuses, commissions, RSUs, and rental income all count.
High-income parents may pay above the guideline cap if the child’s needs justify it.
Support typically continues until age 18 or high school graduation.
Health insurance and medical support are required in every order.
Support can be increased, decreased, or enforced through modification proceedings.
Failure to pay support can lead to license suspension, liens, or jail time.
Child Support FAQs
Parents often have questions about how support is calculated, when it can be changed, and what happens if payments fall behind. These FAQs give straightforward answers based on our decades of experience helping DFW families navigate the child support system.
How is child support calculated in Texas?
Texas uses a percentage of the paying parent’s net resources, but courts can deviate when income is high or special circumstances exist. Net resources include wages, bonuses, commissions, investment income, and business earnings.
Can child support go above the Texas guideline cap?
Yes. If a parent earns well above the guideline limits, the court may order additional support based on the child’s reasonable needs—especially in high-income families.
Can child support be changed after the divorce?
Absolutely. Support can be modified if income changes significantly, a child’s needs change, or three years have passed since the last order. Courts require evidence of the change.
What can I do if the other parent isn’t paying child support?
You can file an enforcement action. Remedies include wage garnishment, license suspension, property liens, and even jail time for serious or repeated violations.
Postnuptial Agreements for DFW Couples
Child support is designed to make sure children receive consistent financial support from both parents, no matter how complicated the family situation may be. But the practical realities—calculating income, proving financial changes, handling high-income cases, or enforcing unpaid support—can be challenging without legal help.
Parents across Dallas and Fort Worth come to us for support with:
- establishing initial child support
- calculating support for high-income earners
- modifying an existing child support order
- enforcing unpaid child support
- addressing private-school tuition, extracurriculars, and medical expenses
- handling self-employment or irregular income
- navigating support during divorce or a custody case
High-Income & Complex Support Cases
For executives, professionals, business owners, and parents with significant assets, Texas guidelines often don’t tell the full story. Courts may look beyond standard calculations when:
- income exceeds the guideline cap
- a child has special needs
- lifestyle and resources are far above average
- one parent controls a business or receives irregular compensation
- income is partially hidden in partnerships or distributions
These cases require careful documentation and a steady legal strategy.
Modification & Enforcement
Life changes. Income shifts. Kids get older. Child support orders often need adjustments. We help parents seek modifications or enforce orders when support is unpaid or ignored.
Whatever your situation, our goal is simple: protect your children and your long-term stability.
Areas Served
Dallas County (Casa Linda, Dallas – Lower Greenville, Greenway Parks, Bluffview, Lakewood, Preston Hollow, Park Cities, Highland Park, White Rock Lake, Turtle Creek, East Dallas, Irving, Richardson, Dallas, Grand Prairie, Mesquite, Garland, Farmers Branch, Carrollton)
Tarrant County (Forest Hill, Colleyville, Westover Hills, Westlake, Keller, Southlake, Arlington, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Euless, Bedford, Hurst, North Richland Hills, Haltom City, Mansfield, Saginaw, Watauga, Crowley, Benbrook, Richland Hills, Lake Worth, Azle)
How Ashmore Law Can Help With Child Support
Accurate Calculations Based on Real Income
We ensure the numbers reflect your actual net resources—including bonuses, commissions, investment income, and self-employment earnings.
Strategic Guidance for High-Income Parents
When income exceeds the Texas cap, we help establish (or challenge) claims for additional support based on the child’s real needs.
Support Orders That Stand the Test of Time
We draft clear, enforceable terms that prevent misunderstandings about medical support, insurance, extracurriculars, vacations, and reimbursements.
Modifications When Life Changes
Whether your income goes up, down, or becomes inconsistent, we help you seek the right adjustment.
Enforcement When Support Isn’t Paid
From wage garnishment to contempt proceedings, we help ensure court-ordered support is honored.
Calm, Clear Communication Throughout the Process
Child support cases can be tense and emotional. We help you stay grounded and informed at every step.
Meet Our Team
Gary Ashmore
A trusted name in family law, Gary brings over two decades of experience in divorce litigation and negotiation. Known for his strategic thinking and calm demeanor, he is a steady guide through even the most challenging disputes.
Lori Ashmore Peters
With a deep background in estate planning, probate and business planning, Mrs. Peters brings a high level of financial insight to matters involving significant assets, business ownership and long term wealth preservation.
Hamid Naraghi
Hamid focuses on protecting client rights with thorough legal analysis and practical advice. He is a strong advocate in court and a thoughtful problem-solver when resolution is possible outside the courtroom.
Samantha Matthews
Samantha brings both knowledge and empathy to every case. She works hard to understand each client’s unique needs and build a legal strategy that fits their personal goals.
Schedule Your Confidential Consultation Today
Don't face this alone. Our Dallas divorce team is ready to listen to your story and explain your options. We provide clear, honest advice so you can make the best decision for your future.
Call us today at (214) 997-2821 or fill out the simple form below. Our team will get back to you right away.