When life changes, should your child support order stay the same?
That’s the question many parents in Texas face. Circumstances can shift dramatically—jobs are lost, incomes fluctuate, or a child’s needs evolve. Yet far too many parents continue paying or receiving outdated support amounts that no longer reflect reality. More than 45% of child support cases involve payments that do not align with current financial or custodial situations. This can create unnecessary stress for both parents and children.
Daniel Ogbeide Law, one of the leading family law firms in Houston, understands how overwhelming it can be to request a modification. With a focus on protecting families and securing fair financial outcomes, their team of experienced child support attorneys helps clients pursue changes efficiently and legally—so outdated court orders don’t become a burden.
This article outlines when and how a child support order can be changed in Texas, the legal requirements, and how an experienced child support lawyer in Houston can make the process smoother.
Legal Grounds to Modify a Child Support Order in Texas
Under Texas law, you can’t request a child support change at any time simply because you’d like to. There are specific legal thresholds that must be met.
Here are the most common valid reasons:
1. Material and Substantial Change in Circumstances
The court will consider a modification if there has been a material and substantial change since the last order. Examples include:
- A significant change in the paying parent’s income (job loss, demotion, or promotion)
- A change in custody or visitation arrangement
- A change in the child’s health needs or educational expenses
- The paying parent becoming responsible for additional children
2. Three-Year Rule
You can also request a review if:
- At least three years have passed since the last order was established or modified
- The monthly child support amount differs by $100 or 20% from what would be awarded under current Texas child support guidelines
This allows for periodic updates even if there hasn’t been a major life event.
How to Request a Modification
Parents can seek a modification by filing a petition with the court or through the Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Division. However, legal representation is strongly recommended, especially when the other parent contests the change.
Here’s a general overview of the process:
- File a Motion to Modify with the court that issued the current support order
- Serve the other parent with notice of the motion
- Attend a hearing where both parties can present evidence
- Wait for the judge’s ruling
A child support attorney can help:
- Assess whether your case meets the requirements
- Gather and present compelling financial documentation
- Represent your interests in court proceedings
Common Mistakes That Can Delay or Deny a Modification
Many parents assume an informal agreement with the other party is enough. It’s not. A verbal agreement isn’t enforceable—you need a formal court order. Other pitfalls include:
- Failing to provide adequate evidence of income changes
- Waiting too long to request a modification
- Not understanding how new marriages or additional children affect support calculations
An experienced child support lawyer in Houston can help you avoid these issues and present a clear, compelling case.
Thinking About Changing a Child Support Order? Here’s What You Should Know
Has your financial situation changed? Are your child’s needs different than they were a few years ago?
If your existing child support order no longer reflects your current circumstances, it’s time to consider legal modification. These changes aren’t automatic—you must take action through the courts. That’s where professional legal support becomes essential.
Daniel Ogbeide Law stands out as one of the most trusted family law firms in Houston. Their team brings years of experience to every child support case, helping clients resolve issues with efficiency and precision. Whether you’re requesting a change or responding to one, a child support attorney from Daniel Ogbeide Law can protect your interests and guide you through each step.
Contact Daniel Ogbeide Law today to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable child support lawyer. Get the support you need to update your child support order legally and fairly—because your family deserves financial stability that reflects today, not yesterday.
