Legal Question in Family Law in Tennessee

Re: Collecting past due child support

Hello there -

Pursuing past child support is not at all an uncommon procedure in Texas. The suit for such could be filed by you here in Texas, and in fact, is only appropriate in this state if you and your child have resided in the state for the past six months. Suit would likely not be proper in Tennessee due to the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.

The proper procedure would be to file an action for "Enforcement of Child Support" in Texas district court in your county. The father would have to be served in Tennesee, which would require use of the Secretary of State in Texas. All of which, will not be too great of an issue. There are some applicable statutes of limitations and the 18 year mark of the child is quite crucial. I encourage you to retain an attorney and start work on this case as soon as possible, with special discussions of statutes of limitations.

This firm practices family law and pursues enforcement of custody and support obligations throughout the state. Should you have further questions or wish to consult with us, please feel free to call 254.756.5004 or e-mail: [email protected] All the best,

Joshua Wintters

Attorney at law

Re: Collecting past due child support

What Mr. Winters said is right. Even if your child is already 18, the law allows you to collect past child support if the filing is done within a reasonable time after the birthday. What's more, you may be able to collect attorney fees in the enforcement action. Call me at 713-465-1456 if you have any questions.