If Texas’ family courts just ordered the other parent to start paying child support after a significant gap, you might wonder if you can get payments that you would’ve received had the order been made earlier. Here, we’ll learn about retroactive support payments.

How to Seek Retroactive Child Support

Support and must follow certain steps before clients can receive back child support payments. Similarly, the family court must take certain actions. If the court determines that retroactive support is appropriate, it must set a time period for the order.

Other Considerations for the Courts to Make

The state’s family court will also evaluate whether the parent paying support has been ordered to do so previously. If that’s not the case, it’s very possible that they will be required to pay retroactive support. However, if they’ve already paid in the past, they may still have to make back payments for several reasons.

Guidelines on Retroactive Child Support

Texas’ family codes include rules on setting a reasonable amount of back child support. In many cases, courts order an amount equal to four years’ support. The courts always consider the best interests of the children, and it’s quite uncommon for them to extend an order for more than four years into the past.

Texas’ laws on child support are complex, and parents shouldn’t navigate the system alone. Visit the firm at  or call today to consult with child custody lawyers Lakeway TX.

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Car accidents can be jarring.

Although you may technically “know” what to do following a car accident, it may be hard to recall the steps when you are in the heat of the moment.

That is why it is imperative that you familiarize yourself with the steps you should take before an auto accident occurs.

Consider taking note of the following steps in case you ever find yourself in a less than favorable car accident situation.

What Is the First Thing I Should Do If I Am Ever Involved in an Auto Accident?

The very first thing you should do is stay calm and check yourself, and any passengers, for injuries. If you are still in the line of danger, such as in the middle of the road, move yourself, and those that are with you, to a safe location.

I’ve Made Sure That Everyone Is Safe. Now What?

1. Stay at the Scene – This may seem like a no-brainer, but you should never leave the scene of an accident, even if your vehicle is still in working condition.

2. Involve the Authorities – Following a significant car accident, you will often need to call the police. There are instances where both parties involved in smaller accidents agree to exchange phone numbers and insurance information, but for serious collisions, the authorities should always be involved.

3. Make Sure the Account You Give Is Accurate – Once the authorities arrive, make sure to give them the details of what happened as accurately as possible. Failure to do so may incriminate you later, and lying will only ruin your credibility.

Always make sure to recount exactly what happened, and don’t be afraid to let the authorities know when you can’t remember something.

4. Take Pictures – Taking pictures of physical damage done to yourself, to others or to your vehicle can be very helpful for record keeping. It can also be used to confirm your side of the story, especially if you end up in court.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company – If you are ever involved in an automobile accident, don’t delay; you must be prompt in letting your insurance company know.

6. Hire a Lawyer If Needed – If you would like representation in the court of law, you may want to look into hiring a car accident lawyer Ponte Vedra.

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