Severn Family Law 2026-10-12T12:50:29Z https://www.severn.law/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1204559/2025/11/cropped-site-icon-severn-new-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Severn Family Law <![CDATA[Texas tools to help you collect child support]]> https://www.severn.law/?p=46760 2026-10-12T12:50:29Z 2026-10-12T12:50:29Z Forceful ways to ensure payment Enforcement actions can disrupt a non-paying parent's life until they catch up on their arrears. These actions target their finances, their ability to travel and even their professional standing. Depending on the situation, they may involve:
  • Wage withholding orders: This sends a direct request to an employer to take support straight from a paycheck.
  • License suspension: The state can freeze driver’s, fishing or professional licenses until a parent makes payments.
  • Contempt of court: A judge may order jail time or steep fines for those who ignore court orders.
  • Passport denial: If the debt is high enough, the federal government can block international travel.
  • Property liens: A lien can be placed on a house or land, making it hard for them to sell assets without paying you first.
These measures serve as a firm reminder that financial obligations to your child are not optional.

Putting the law to work for you

You have the power to demand the support your child was promised by the court. If you wish to pursue enforcement actions, understand that it is a technical process that requires specific evidence and organized paperwork. Be sure that you keep diligent records of payments missed and made, bills and relevant receipts. Collect contact information for the paying parent, a copy of your support order and any other paperwork to support your claim.
It can also be wise to consult an attorney who can file the formal motions for enforcement and calculate the exact amount of unpaid child support arrears plus any applicable interest. Having a legal advocate helps ensure that you handle procedural steps correctly so your case stays on track.
]]> On Behalf of Severn Family Law <![CDATA[New teeth for Texas custody enforcement orders]]> https://www.severn.law/?p=46756 2026-08-12T13:41:42Z 2026-08-11T18:39:26Z Jail time for repeat violations For years, some parents believed they could skirt access and possession schedules with little more than a warning. The new legal standards change this by making three findings of contempt a state jail felony, which can mean up to two years in jail. Harsher criminal and civil rules and stronger enforcement measures give compliant parents more protection and legal options when dealing with parents who repeatedly break the rules.

Recovering lost time and legal costs

New measures also prioritize making the wronged parent whole with financial and scheduling penalties. These consequences are designed to discourage parents from using the legal system to stall or delay justice. Specifically, the law allows for:
  • Additional periods of possession for the compliant parent to make up for denied time
  • Court orders for the violator to pay all associated attorney’s fees
  • New procedural rules limiting the ability of a parent to use delay tactics to avoid a hearing
By strengthening consequences, the law shifts the financial and emotional burden away from the compliant parent.

Patterns of behavior can lead to custody changes

Courts don't necessarily look at violations in isolation; they could view them as a pattern. If a parent consistently fails to follow the possession schedule, the court has the authority to modify the custody order outright. These changes provide clearer consequences for parents who ignore court orders. That said, it can still be complicated to navigate your options and next steps amid changing laws and procedures. If you are struggling with a noncompliant parent and the draining fallout of drawn-out legal battles, working with our experienced family attorney can be wise. Doing so can make it easier to find solutions, protect your kids and hold the other parent accountable.]]>