Is It Worth Hiring a Lawyer to Increase Child Support in Texas?
Many Houston-area parents consider hiring a private attorney to increase child support but aren’t sure whether the financial benefit justifies the effort. A simple cost-benefit analysis can help clarify the decision.
Texas calculates child support by applying statutory guideline percentages to the paying parent’s monthly net resources. For one child, that percentage is 20%. As of 2026, guideline support is capped at net resources of $11,700 per month, which places the maximum guideline support for one child at $2,340 per month. If your existing order was issued under an older, lower cap or if the paying parent’s income has increased, you may now be entitled to more support.
Medical support is also required, and Texas generally orders the obligor to provide health insurance and both parents to split uninsured medical expenses 50/50.
The key practical question is whether the potential increase outweighs the cost and disruption of litigation. For example, a meaningful monthly increase—especially when many years of support remain—can add up significantly over time. In contrast, if your child is nearing adulthood or the expected increase is small, pursuing a modification through the Attorney General’s Office may be more appropriate and less adversarial.
Every family’s circumstances are different, but a straightforward financial comparison usually makes the path forward clear.
If you need guidance about seeking a child support increase, visit our consultation page to learn more.
Texas calculates child support by applying statutory guideline percentages to the paying parent’s monthly net resources. For one child, that percentage is 20%. As of 2026, guideline support is capped at net resources of $11,700 per month, which places the maximum guideline support for one child at $2,340 per month. If your existing order was issued under an older, lower cap or if the paying parent’s income has increased, you may now be entitled to more support.
Medical support is also required, and Texas generally orders the obligor to provide health insurance and both parents to split uninsured medical expenses 50/50.
The key practical question is whether the potential increase outweighs the cost and disruption of litigation. For example, a meaningful monthly increase—especially when many years of support remain—can add up significantly over time. In contrast, if your child is nearing adulthood or the expected increase is small, pursuing a modification through the Attorney General’s Office may be more appropriate and less adversarial.
Every family’s circumstances are different, but a straightforward financial comparison usually makes the path forward clear.
If you need guidance about seeking a child support increase, visit our consultation page to learn more.