Does Texas Law Allow Modifications to Child Support, Custody, and Spousal Support Orders?
In Texas, family law and divorce matters such as child support, child custody, and spousal support are governed by specific laws and guidelines. These laws provide guidance on how to initiate legal proceedings to obtain orders related to family matters and how modifications to these orders can be sought. Keeping the child’s best interests at the forefront, the Texas family courts recognize that changes in circumstances can occasionally necessitate court orders to be changed. Today, we will discuss when and how modifications can be made to child support, child custody, and spousal support orders in Texas. If you need to modify an order, contact a family lawyer to start the modification process.
Modifying Spousal Support
In Texas, spousal support orders can be modified or terminated under certain circumstances. Under Texas law, the court may modify a spousal support order if either party can demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances. Events that qualify as substantial may include losing your job, a significant reduction in income, the receiving spouse’s remarriage, or a dramatic increase in health expenses. Since spousal support is awarded based on the need of one spouse and the ability of the other spouse to pay, changes in these factors can justify a modification or termination of the spousal support order. It is important to note that the party seeking modification must provide evidence that a change has occurred that has affected the situation’s circumstances, thereby making necessary the need to modify the spousal support order.
Modifying Child Support
Like spousal support, child support orders can be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss, increased expenses, or a change in custody arrangement. A parent can file a petition to modify child support, and the court will require the filing parent to show evidence of the change in circumstances. These circumstances must demonstrate a change significantly impacting the child’s needs. Modifications must be filed in court, and it is recommended to consult with an experienced family law attorney while initiating the petition for modification.
Modifying Child Custody
Finally, child custody orders can be modified to meet the child’s changing needs. Changes can include modifications to visitation schedules, parenting plan specifics, and types of conservatorships. In addition, a parent can file a petition to modify a child’s custody order when circumstances change or the child’s best interests necessitate the modification. Factors that may require a modification include changes in either or both parents' living situations, job commitments, relocation, or health conditions.
Contact a Collin County Family Lawyer
Contact the Parker family law attorney with Law Office of Brian Bagley for highly respected legal guidance. Call (972) 843-7158 for a free consultation.
Source:
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.156.htm