Divorce does not have to mean the end of a parent’s involvement in a child’s upbringing. Even if you no longer live under the same roof, your role as a noncustodial parent remains vital in your children’s lives. Understanding these new responsibilities is key to maintaining a positive and loving relationship with them.
Paying child support and other responsibilities
The duties of non-custodial parents typically include:
- Paying child support on time and in full
- Maintaining regular communication with the child
- Adhering to the visitation schedule as outlined in the custody agreement
- Participating in essential decisions regarding the child’s education, health and welfare
- Keeping the custodial parent informed about any changes in contact information or employment status
- Fulfilling other responsibilities outlined in the custody agreement
One of your most significant obligations as a noncustodial parent is child support. Texas law requires you to contribute financially to your children’s well-being.
The amount of child support you owe depends on your net income and the number of children involved. For instance, 20 percent of your net income will likely go to child support if you have one child, but it will be, at most, $8,550 unless the court determines the need for a higher amount.
Missed payments or failure to meet your child support obligations altogether can result in serious legal consequences. The Texas Attorney General’s Office has the authority to enforce child support orders through various means, such as license suspension, passport denial and placement of liens.
Each family needs tailored legal solutions
Being a noncustodial parent does not make you any less important in your children’s lives. If you need to address child support, visitation and other custody-related issues, it is best to obtain the guidance of a skilled family law attorney in Texas. This way, you can continue to be a loving and influential presence for your children, even after divorce.