Legal Topics > Family > Children > Child Support

Texas Retroactive Child Support Lawyers

LegalMatch Law Library Managing Editor, Ken LaMance, Attorney at Law

Can I Collect Retroactive Child Support in Texas?

Most states permit collecting child support back to the date when you first applied for child support, not just from the date your application is approved. Texas suggests a maximum of four years but also allows some flexibility in deciding how far back to go in awarding retroactive child support.

What Are the Restrictions on Collecting Retroactive Child Support in Texas?

In deciding how big the retroactive child support award should be, a Texas court will look at:

How much money the other parent had then and has now
Whether the other parent knew support was required
How much money the other parent has already paid

How Far Back in Time Will the Retroactive Child Support Award Go?

The retroactive child support award will usually go back no more than 4 years unless the other parent intentionally avoided supporting the child, or if there are other special needs. In any case, child support cannot be awarded for time when both parents were living together.

Will an Award of Retroactive Child Support Reduce Future Child Support?

Retroactive child support is granted in addition to regular child support - it does not reduce future payments.

Do I Need a Family Lawyer to Collect Retroactive Child Support?

If you are seeking to establish retroactive child support, it may be wise to speak with an experienced family lawyer. Consulting with a Texas family lawyer can help you understand your options and help you deal with the complicated legal system.

For more local legal information, please see these pages:
Texas Lawyers