Texas’s child custody and McAllen child support orders are not set in stone; they can be modified when circumstances change. This can happen due to changes in financial situations, shifts in living arrangements, or alterations in parenting responsibilities. Read below to learn a few reasons a court judge may approve your modification request to your child support or custody order.
Custody Modification
Substantial Change in Circumstances: To modify a child custody order in Texas, circumstances must be substantially changed since the last order was established. This change could include relocation, a parent’s job change, remarriage, or a significant change in the child’s needs or living situation.
- Child’s Preference: If a child is at least 12 years old and wishes to modify the custody arrangement, the court may consider their preference. However, the child’s best interests are always the primary concern.
- Parental Agreement: If both parents agree on the modification, they can submit a written agreement to the court, and if it’s in the child’s best interest, the court will likely approve it.
- Evidence of Harm: If one parent can prove that the current custody arrangement harms the child’s physical or emotional well-being, the court may consider this a substantial change in circumstances warranting a modification.
- Violation of the Current Order: If one parent consistently violates the existing custody order, this can be grounds for modification. Courts take violations of custody orders seriously, and changes may be made to ensure compliance.
McAllen Child Support Modification
- If the parent paying child support has additional children in another relationship.
- If the child’s medical expenses significantly increase due to illness or disability.
- Child support may be modified accordingly if a child becomes emancipated or finishes their education early.
- If the child’s educational expenses change substantially, such as enrolling in private school or higher education.
- If the child starts living with the non-custodial parent for an extended period, their financial responsibility may decrease.
- Child support orders can be modified if either parent experiences a significant difference in income due to job loss, promotion, or changes in employment status.
It’s important to note that modifications are not automatic, and the court will always prioritize the child’s best interests when considering custody or support order changes.
Key Takeaways
- Child custody and support orders in Texas can be modified when a substantial change in circumstances warrants it.
- Parents must work together or seek legal assistance when seeking modifications to navigate the process effectively and fairly.
- Whether it’s a change in income, a shift in the child’s needs, or a violation of the existing order, the court is willing to adjust these orders to ensure they continue to serve the child’s best interests.
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