In Texas, child support is a necessary part of a child custody agreement because it helps cover the costs of a child’s food, clothes and housing. If a parent stops or refuses to pay their support, it can mess up things for everyone involved, especially the child.
When it comes to child custody, it is important to understand how unpaid child support can impact a parent’s rights.
Financial responsibility
Both parents must help take care of their child and share the cost of raising them, even if the parents are no longer together. However, if one parent does not pay, it can make it tough for the other one to provide for the child’s needs.
Legal consequences
Not paying child support can get a parent into trouble with the law. The courts take it seriously because it shows that the parent is not doing what is best for the child. If a parent does not pay, they might lose the right to see their son or daughter as often or even lose custody altogether.
Relational impact
When a parent does not pay child support, it can cause a lot of tension between the parents and even between them and their child. The parent taking care of the child might feel angry and stressed, while the child may feel let down and upset toward the parent who is not paying.
Custody changes
If a parent continues to not pay child support, it could lead to changes in the custody agreement. The court may decide that the parent is not responsible enough to have custody or visitation rights. They will always decide this based on what is best for the child.
By working together and fulfilling their responsibilities, parents can maintain a good relationship with their child and provide them with the things they need.