How to Avoid Rookie Mistakes in a Child Support Case in Austin
Child support cases are generally stressful. However, understanding the intricacies of child support law in Austin is vital in navigating the process. So, no matter what the state of the parent’s relationship, the child's welfare must be the priority. Especially, if you are the parent paying child support, there are certain mistakes you shouldn't make when it comes to child support matters. Irrespective of your financial situation, some rookie mistakes will not only affect your relationship with your child but can land you in jail. In this article, we will discuss five mistakes you shouldn't make as a parent paying child support.
Hire an Experienced Child Support Attorney
When you are trying to come up with a child support agreement with your partner, getting legal counsel from Austin child support attorneys goes a long way. Austin has several complex child support laws which is why an experienced attorney can help you navigate the process with ease while protecting your rights at the same time. Choosing not to hire an experienced child support attorney, puts you at a disadvantage, which can end up costing you dearly in the long run.
Full Disclosure of Your Income
Another common mistake parents make when it comes to child support agreements is that they don't give full disclosure of their income. You need to be open about your financial status as this helps in calculating entitlement and amounts for child support. If your financial situation changes and you cannot keep up with the agreed payment, discuss with your ex-spouse about coming up with a plan that works for both of you. Missing child support makes it difficult to catch up, and the court may order you to pay a higher amount later.
Don’t Pay Child Support Past a Child’s Age of Emancipation
According to the Texas child support law, the age of emancipation is 18. So, the parent paying child support is obligated to pay child support up to the age of emancipation of the child. However, if the child is still attending high school full-time, then the parent has to pay child support till the child graduates or turns 19, whichever comes first. If you choose to continue paying child support past this point, you will be doing so voluntarily.
Assuming a Loss of a Job or Financial Capacity will Terminate Child Support
Whether you lose your job, or you’re under investigation for self-defense, it does not exempt you from paying child support. However, if you lose your job or source of income, or you get incarcerated, you can file for a modification in the amount you pay in child support. As a noncustodial parent, you are obligated to pay child support as it is not based on your employment status but on your income.
Don’t Make Payments Outside Court-approved Methods
Also, some parents make the mistake of paying child support through other payment methods such as a family member or friend. But making child support payments to your ex-spouse through payment methods outside court-approved methods has caused a lot of disputes in the past. As a result, today, the majority of child support payments include an automated income withdrawal order. This way, the money is deducted from the non-custodial parents' account and sent directly to the parent with custody.