Experienced Counsel For Child Custody, Support And Spousal Support
When you are going through a divorce, your primary concern is most likely your children. You may wonder how divorce will affect them: who they will live with and who will provide their support. In addition, if you are paying or receiving spousal support, you need to ensure that the amount is fair to both parties. I can help with all of these matters.
Keeping Your Children’s Best Interests At Heart
I am family law attorney Kristi Barnhill, and I am committed to protecting your parental rights to ensure that you get the support and parenting time you are entitled to. If you are going through a divorce, the Law Office of Kristi Barnhill, PLLC, can help you negotiate the details and navigate through court system. Contact my law firm in The Woodlands today to schedule a consultation with a highly skilled child custody and support attorney.
Child Custody And Visitation
I am experienced in handling child custody issues involving contested and uncontested divorces. In Texas, unless there are special circumstances, generally both parents keep equal rights and duties regarding their children. Although one parent will generally have the right to determine where the child will live, the courts prefer to promote co-parenting when possible to allow both parents to share the rights and duties of being a parent.
Child Support Determination
In Texas, a parent can ask the court for current and retroactive child support. Court-ordered child support is usually based on a guideline formula. Unless you and the other parent reach a different agreement, the court will generally use this formula to calculate the child support amount. Some factors taken into consideration include the following:
- Income of noncustodial parent
- How many children the noncustodial parent has
- Any factors that may justify deviating from the guidelines
Even though child support is typically determined by the Texas child support guidelines, there are some situations in which different arrangements can be made. I can help you through these cases.
Offering Spousal Support Services In Montgomery County
In certain cases, spousal support or alimony can be awarded to a spouse for a period of time. It is intended to provide limited support to a spouse during the period of uncertainty following the dissolution of the marriage. Certain requirements must be met before a spouse is eligible to receive spousal support. Before awarding spousal support, the court considers a variety of factors such as:
- How long the couple has been married?
- The earning capacity of each spouse
- Can each spouse support himself or herself?
- Does a spouse need further education or training before rejoining the workforce?
I can help you with initial spousal support determinations and will vigorously advocate for an amount that is fair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody And Support Issues
As an experienced divorce lawyer, I have helped countless families resolve child custody and support issues. Here is a collection of frequently asked questions:
Can I still get child support if my ex-spouse and I have joint custody of our children?
Yes. Child support may be given to one parent even if parents have joint custody. Child support is determined by a few factors, such as the monthly income of both parents, monthly expenses, the amount of support spent on a child and the number of children. Parents can mutually agree on child support. However, this agreement may still be reviewed by a judge. Child support obligations can also change after a divorce. I can help families explore their child support options.
Is it possible to modify a child custody and support agreement in Texas after the divorce is finalized?
Yes. Child custody and support agreements can be altered after a divorce in Texas. Parents can petition a court to make modifications to an agreement. Parents may have to demonstrate a significant need for this change, such as if a parent is no longer fit to raise their child, has developed health issues or is unemployed. A judge will consider if the modification is in a child’s best interests.
Do I have to pay child support if my ex-spouse remarries?
Yes. Child support payments are made regardless of the marital status of the parents. Child support is for the best interests of a child and not the parent. However, the amount of child support that is paid could change if a parent’s income increases.
Can grandparents petition for visitation rights in a divorce with children case in Texas?
There is no absolute right for grandparents to receive visitation, but they may request possession of or access to a grandchild when they believe it is in the child’s best interests. Since the law presumes that all fit parents automatically know what is in a child’s best interests, it is important for those concerned about grandparents’ rights to seek experienced legal guidance to better understand their options.
You Need A Lawyer Who Will Protect Your Interests And Your Children
For help with child custody or support orders, petitioning for spousal support or establishing child custody and support during your divorce, contact my law firm at 713-965-7612 to schedule a consultation.
I am a highly skilled divorce lawyer with experience handling cases in Montgomery County. My law office is conveniently located near The Woodlands Mall and Market Street.