Support obligations affect both parents and former spouses for years after a divorce or separation. Whether you are establishing support for the first time, modifying an existing order, or enforcing one that is not being paid, the financial stakes are real and ongoing. At the Law Office of David Lanehart, we represent clients across Lubbock and the surrounding region in child support, spousal maintenance, and enforcement matters under Texas law.
Understanding Texas Support Calculations
Texas child support is calculated under Chapter 154 of the Texas Family Code using a percentage formula applied to the obligor’s net resources. The basic guidelines call for 20 percent of net resources for one child, 25 percent for two, 30 percent for three, 35 percent for four, and 40 percent for five or more. The percentages apply up to a statutory cap on net resources, with above-cap calculations subject to court discretion based on the proven needs of the child.
Spousal maintenance, by contrast, is much more limited in Texas than in many other states. It is governed by Chapter 8 of the Family Code and is generally available only in specific circumstances — long marriages where the requesting spouse cannot meet minimum reasonable needs, marriages affected by family violence, or marriages where one spouse has a disability that prevents self-support.
Support Matters We Handle
Our support practice assists clients with a wide range of issues, including:
- Initial child support determinations
- Above-guidelines support cases
- Self-employment and complex income calculations
- Child support modifications based on income changes
- Medical and dental support obligations
- Spousal maintenance determinations
- Contractual alimony agreements
- Enforcement actions and contempt proceedings
- Wage withholding orders
- License suspensions for non-payment
- Collection of support arrearages
- Interstate support enforcement under UIFSA
Each case involves careful documentation of income, expenses, and the practical realities that affect what an obligor can pay and what a recipient genuinely needs.
How the Law Office of David Lanehart Can Help
Whether you are seeking support, contesting an unreasonable demand, modifying an existing order, or enforcing one that is not being paid, we provide the careful preparation and skilled advocacy that support cases require.
Contact the Law Office of David Lanehart Today
If you are facing a child support or spousal maintenance matter in Lubbock or anywhere in West Texas, contact the Law Office of David Lanehart today to schedule a confidential consultation and protect your financial future.