Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

My ex and I have joint (50/50) custody of our daughter, and I still agreed to pay my ex $400 a month in support and she carry the health insurance on our daughter. My ex is always trying to find ways in getting more money from me. Recently she took our daughter to a dermatologist (which wasnt needed - our daughter has very clear skin) and she sent me a bill showing that I owe her $83 dollars. I contacted the dermatologist and found out that the office visit was only $25 dollars, and the rest is from a facial cleanser & toner that she bought (which cost $58 dollars) that wasnt medically necessary. I told my ex that I am not reimbursing this because (1) it wasnt discussed with me first and (2) it wasnt medically necessary, which is what is stated in our decree and (3) I shouldnt have to reimburse for the face wash & toner. Now my ex is saying that she is going to send this bill to the Attorney General and they will add it on to my child support. Can she do this? Am I liable to have to pay for this dermatologist appointment - that isnt even medical or necessary? Please help.


Asked on 10/29/12, 10:17 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
TC Langford Langford Law Office

OTC items are not included in the medical obligation. You have a right to contest the amount of the reimbursement. Get a detailed statement from the dermatologist's office in case she decides at some point to go to court. The Attorney General rarely (if ever) institutes an enforcement action solely on the issue of reimbursement of medical primarily because it is a factual issue. In the event it happens, the written billing from the doctor is valid defense. (Send her $12.50 and document the payment).

Read more
Answered on 10/30/12, 12:36 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Texas