How are visitation and child support handled in Texas?
A. There are presumptive guidelines for visitation and support, which constitute general rules for the courts to follow. There is a visitation schedule known as the Standard Possession Order, which sets forth the presumptive minimum amount of time for a person named as a joint managing conservator. Likewise, there are somewhat standardized child support guidelines so that, generally, child support is presumed to be set as a percentage of the obligor’s net income. It is important to know, however, that there are certain instances where the “presumed” guidelines may not be applied. By agreement or court order, the actual visitation or support ordered can deviate from the guidelines. This is where having competent legal representation can be crucial. Call me for more information.
