Child support orders are usually issued by the family courts and directed at biological parents who are not their children’s primary custodians, and therefore not otherwise financially responsible for their day-to-day needs. While basic child support orders are fairly straightforward and calculated by factoring in both parents’ incomes, there can be situations that require more tailored solutions.
In the state of Texas, the guideline's maximum amount for child support orders is $1,500. In some situations, however, this figure may be exceeded. This could be true in cases where the parent paying child support has an exceedingly high income. It might also be the case if it is determined to be in the best interests of the child in question, e.g. if they have special needs and require more support than the average child would.
How can I show that my child needs more financial support?
The child custody courts in Texas strive to rule fairly and in the best interests of the children. If you are the primary custodian of a special needs child, it is likely that it will be necessary for your child’s other parent to pay above-guideline child support to help you with the medical costs, equipment, or additional supports that are necessary.
The courts will understand and recognize this need. But it is important that you are able to give thorough documentation of the care on which your child depends so that the judge can fully understand the extent of the situation. He or she will consider the disposable incomes of the parents, but will also evaluate the individual needs of the child, as well as the expenses that are necessary in order to enrich the child’s life. These could include child care expenses, private school tuition, travel expenses, and special equipment that encourage learning and interaction with peers.
Amounts of child support can be agreed upon by the parents out of court, but when situations change and arguments ensue, the court becomes the arbiter. Court-ordered child support is flexible because it can be formally modified at any time. If you are seeking the above-guideline child support for your child in Texas, it is important to look into the possibilities you have.