Family law in Texas is constantly evolving. While the core principles remain, new legislation and court rulings continue to shape how family matters are handled across the state.
In recent years, several significant updates have been made to child support, custody, spousal maintenance, protective orders, and adoption laws. Understanding these changes can help you better protect your rights and prepare for your case. If you’re facing a family law issue, do not wait to speak with an experienced Killeen family law attorney.
Child Support Updates
In 2023, Texas made some substantial changes to their child support laws.
Addressing Underemployment and Unemployment
In 2023, Texas passed Senate Bill 870, targeting parents who intentionally reduce their income to avoid child support. Courts now have stronger enforcement tools, including ordering obligors to take any of the following actions:
Find suitable employment
Set up payment plans for owed child support
Engage in enough work to pay owed child support
Participate in a community employment assistance program
The court may also hold the obligor in contempt or withhold their income. Child support can now be calculated based on a parent’s earning potential, not just actual income.
If you're concerned about how your income or employment status might affect child support, contact a Killeen child support attorney.
Expanded Support Coverage
Recent changes also allow courts to consider medical and dental expenses directly when calculating child support. This can better reflect a child’s specific health needs beyond standard guidelines.
Disability Payments and Lump Sums
Parents receiving disability in lump sums can no longer use those payments to offset future child support obligations. Even if the children benefit directly from the lump sum, future payments still stand.
Incarcerated Parents
For parents incarcerated six months or longer, the Attorney General can now adjust support obligations. However, this does not apply to those jailed for child support violations or domestic violence. The other parent must be notified 30 days before any change, and both parties can seek further modification post-release.
Digital and Remote Modernization
To streamline the legal proceedings related to child support, Texas has adopted the following modern tools in its processes:
Digital signatures
Required email addresses
Remote hearings
These updates make it easier for parents to participate and comply with legal processes.
Child Custody Law Adjustments
A key update in child custody law involves expert testimony. Experts who didn’t perform a custody evaluation in the case may now testify on another expert’s findings, qualifications, or methodology. This allows for more comprehensive review of expert input, which could affect custody outcomes.
Have questions about how custody decisions are made in Texas? Speak with a Killeen custody attorney.
Spousal Maintenance Updates
On 2023, Texas capped spousal maintenance at $5,000 or 20% of the payer’s gross income, whichever is less. Duration now depends on the length of the marriage:
10–20 years: up to 5 years
20–30 years: up to 7 years
30+ years: up to 10 years
Courts can extend support if the recipient is disabled, caring for a child with disabilities, or unable to meet basic needs due to prolonged absence from the workforce. Caregiving for a special needs child now qualifies for extended consideration.
Protective Order Law Revisions
House Bill 1432 (2023) removed the requirement to prove a threat of future violence when seeking a protective order for domestic abuse. Now, documented past abuse is sufficient. This makes protective orders more accessible and effective.
Previously, abusers could avoid accountability by arguing there was no clear evidence of future harm. By focusing on past actions, the law better supports victims in urgent need of protection.
If you're a victim of domestic violence, learn how a protective order could help. Contact a Killeen protective order lawyer.
Equitable Adoption Law Reform
Texas has also addressed equitable adoption, also known as adoption by estoppel or informal adoption. This applies when a parent and child act as if an adoption occurred, even if not formally completed. If proven, the child can now inherit from the adoptive parent under intestacy laws.
This change reflects modern family structures and allows for legal recognition of informal yet meaningful parental relationships.
Get Legal Guidance on Recent Family Law Changes
Navigating family law issues is never easy, especially with so many recent changes. Whether you're dealing with child support, custody, or adoption, the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard is here to help. Our experienced Killeen family law team is ready to explain your rights and advocate for your best outcome.
Call us at (254) 781-4222 or schedule a FREE consultation online today.